SURROUNDED by a snowstorm, these young polar bears battle the elements - as well as each other. The lumbering pair's sibling rivalry heats up the frosty winter setting in snow swept Alaska. American photographer and tour guide, Matthew Studebaker, 30, managed to capture these extraordinary shots in 25 miles per hour wind on Barrier Islands, Alaska in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. No strangers to the freezing weather, the playful polar bears sparred in temperatures of minus six degrees. "These siblings were teasing each other and sparring during a snowstorm," explains Matthew of Richfield, Ohio.
A northern potoo shows it is a master of disguise as it perches on a tree stump and blends into the bark .
These are the faces of orphans suffering from the horrifying effects of chemical warfare .
A diver attempts to control rising numbers of lionfish by feeding the venomous species to Caribbean reef sharks .
SHOWING off her best assets for the camera, this cheeky orangutan is in the mood for love, puckering up her lips to blow the biggest kiss she can .
A young orangutan comes over all shy as she hides her face behind a broken bucket .
Staring death in the face, a little field mouse bravely confronts a hungry cat .
SOARING through the air, a hungry white-tailed kite prepares to snatch a vole from his mother’s claws .
A group of shelter dogs showcase their loveable personalities in a series of passport-style photographs - in the hope of finding their forever homes .
CAUSING a splash, this determined kingfisher goes hunting for dinner .
The beds are consumed by moss instead of customers at this abandoned hotel .
