WITH the phosphorescent blobs and mesmerising patterns, these spectacular images may look like the hall marks of an enchanted forest but it is in fact the scene of thousands of dancing FIREFLIES. The luminous green lights that glow from the insects help to give the impression of an extract from a fairy-tale. The magical photographs were taken by photographer Takaaki Ishikawa, 55, on a trip to Nagoya City in Japan. 'Fireflies are very delicate creatures, so it is important to not catch or disturb them,' said Takaaki
The lighthouses of Brittany, from Brest to Le Conquet, stand tall on France’s north-western coast against stunning scenery .
This brave Hyena finally catches his pray among the thousands of flamingos, Lake Nakuru, Kenya - OUTNUMBERED among thousands of flamingos, this bold hyena is not put off from hunting for a morning snack .
WITH A LITTLE cap of fresh snow resting on his head, this squirrel tries his best to pull off his new look .
A middle spotted woodpecker swoops into her nest and feeds her young in a forest in Trentino, Italy .
FLEXING his muscles and staring straight at his opponent, this bodybuilding squirrel is the nuts .
A group of shelter dogs showcase their loveable personalities in a series of passport-style photographs - in the hope of finding their forever homes .
A soap bubble lands on the frosty ground and creates a shimmering snow globe as crystals form around it .
WITH the mystical clouds forming a thick blanket and the electrifying lights below, these stunning pictures provide a unique view of the cityscape of Dubai taken from the tallest building in the world .
A pair of snarling foxes go paw-to-paw and brawl after unexpectedly crossing paths .
A young orangutan comes over all shy as she hides her face behind a broken bucket .
HUDDLING under a leaf, a pair of adorable Javan scops owls take shelter from the rain .