WITH a paw in the air and his tongue hanging from his mouth, it is clear to see that this little groundhog is struggling to wake up and leave behind the comfort of his burrow. The groundhog takes a moment to stretch before quickly becoming aware that he's not alone. The adorable scene was captured in the Tonale Pass, a high mountain pass in Trentino Alto Adige, Italy, by freelance photographer Maurizio Lancini. The 39-year-old, of Rodengo Saiano, Brescia, Italy, says:"I spotted the entrance to the burrow so decided to hide nearby and wait for the groundhog to appear.
Beautiful turquoise waves rise and fall in a series of stunning images taken along the coastline of south-eastern Australia .
A kingfisher’s bright blue and orange feathers glisten in the sunlight as the bird dives into a lake .
Scurrying along the branch of a tree, a little squirrel pushes a pram packed full of Easter treats .
THESE LOVE BIRDS can’t keep their beaks off each other as they share a very public display of affection .
WE’RE all familiar with the heart-wrenching pictures of dogs abandoned in animal shelters, but one photographer has found an innovative way of showcasing the pooch’s personality .
PUCKERING up and enjoying some quality time, these are the most lovable monkeys on the planet .
LYING flat out on his back, this little meerkat makes the most of the English sunshine .
SAT with his arms folded and a cross look on his face, this Gorilla looks like he's had enough of the Christmas holidays already .
A quiet Himalayan mountain village springs to life for a colourful Buddhist festival designed to expel evil spirits and bring happiness .
PERCHING on top of a gate, this young barn swallow waits patiently for his mum to return with dinner .
Primed and ready for action, this collection of striking images from the battlefield could be mistaken for authentic photos taking during World War II .