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.
MASKED intruders look sinister but really they are a gang of urban exploring pranksters .
A panic stricken kitten that got her head stuck in a car tyre has been freed by quick thinking RSPCA staff .
A tiny puppy who lost his front legs after being hit by a train has been given and new LEASH of life with a set of wheels .
LOCATIONS bursting with vibrant greens and chestnut browns, these photographs capture the peaceful English countryside in all its glory .
With their guts spewing and eyes hanging out, these are the cuddly toys children might be reluctant to curl up to .
Peering curiously into a basket hanging off the arms of a snowman, this little squirrel appears fascinated by the snowy figure .
STAIRWAY obsessed photographers have captured psychedelic shots that will mesmerise you .
A photographer has captured spellbinding images of stars swirling above the English countryside .
VENTURING into the ocean with self-made spears and nets, the fishermen of Zanzibar put their lives on the line when they catch food for their families .
With the full moon looming behind him, this polar bear nestles down for the night .
MOUTH OPEN wide, this little stoat appears to be in mid-song as he belts out a tune for his onlookers .