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.
POPE MOBBED BY THOUSANDS OF WORSHIPPERS IN RIO - Thousands of worshippers gather to celebrate the Papal visit on Copacabana beach, Rio de Janeiro ,Brazil .
EAGERLY BITING his nails, this little squirrel is clearly nervous of looming predators as he searches for his meal .
A hungry hippo is seconds away from catching a bird in its gigantic jaws .
MAKING himself at home, this little snail perches happily on top of this frog's head .
A German photographer travelled around Africa where he met and photographed members of tribes in a series of intimate portraits .
FROM COLOURFUL autumn leaves to living trees at first glance you might miss these people blended with nature .
THESE kingfishers prove no rod is needed as they go fishing for their dinner .
FROM A mini table and chairs to a detailed violin, it’s hard to believe these incredible sculptures are all carved into the nib of PENCILS .
Sprawled out on top of a log, this sleeping leopard takes a relaxing break from his daily routine .
A photographer from the United Arab Emirates travelled to Pakistan where he captured the lives of local people in a series of expressive portraits .
