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A rare white tiger bursts out of the water at Singapore Zoo, Singapore - 28 Sep 2009
waiting for the writers return
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Birte Person/Solent / Rex Features ( 1012335g )
A rare white tiger bursts out of the water at Singapore Zoo, Singapore - 28 Sep 2009
AMAZING PICTURES CATCH TIGER'S TEATIME
A rare white tiger lunges into water at feeding time to fight for food.
Female photographer Birte Person captured the astonishing shots of the white Bengal Tiger as it ate with five others.
White tigers are almost extinct and most of those that survive are in captivity. In the past century only 12 have been seen in the wild.
The white tiger is neither an albino nor a separate subspecies. They are born to a Bengal Tiger, or Panthera tigris, that has the recessive gene needed for white colouring.
This happens naturally once in every 10,000 births and results in a tiger with white fur, black stripes, blue eyes and a pink nose.
Birte, 62, from New South Wales, Australia, took the incredible pictures while on a visit to Singapore Zoo.
She said: "Singapore has one of the largest collections of white tigers in the world and runs a very efficient breeding and conservation program.
"When these photos were taken I was on my way to another conservation shoot in Asia but decided I had to stop and look at these magnificent creatures.
"They sit in anticipation on the rocks waiting for the first morsel to be thrown, then it is a huge lunge into the water by all of them.
"It carries on at a frantic pace until they all get some food.
"Because it happens so quickly it is very difficult to get photos like this - I'm very pleased with them."
Bengal Tigers are fully grown at two to three years of age and live for up to 15 years in the wild. Males weigh 200-230 kilograms and are up to three metres in length.
The females are 130-70 kilograms and up to 2.5 meters long.
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Birte Person / Solent / Rex Features
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Britain's lowest ATM cashpoint, Whitchurch, Hampshire, Britain - 31 Jan 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Solent News / Rex Features ( 1103189k )
Britain's lowest ATM cashpoint, Whitchurch, Hampshire, Britain - 31 Jan 2010
CROUCH DOWN CASH MACHINE LEAVES LOCALS FEELING SHORT-CHANGED
Britain's lowest cash machine, which stands little more than 18 inches off the ground, is leaving locals in Whitchurch, Hants feeling distinctly short-changed.
The backbreaking ATM was installed at knee height on the wall of a HSBC branch because the building is listed and there was nowhere else for it to go.
Originally it was not quite as low but last year the pavement was re-laid, raising the level of the walkway by several inches.
Now some Whitchurch residents have found themselves relying on their children to fetch their cash for them so they don't have to bend down.
Others are forced to go down on one knee to use the machine.
However, for one villager the ATM, which is 19.8 inches from the pavement, is at a perfect height.
Standing at 4ft 6ins, dwarf Brian Wheeler, 47, doesn't have to bend double or kneel down to get his hands on his cash.
He said: "Everyone has to crouch to use it but for me it's quite handy.
"I think it's just me and the children of the town who find it the perfect height."
Actor Brian played an Ewok and a Jawa in Star Wars: The Return of the Jedi, and has also starred in the most recent Harry Potter film.
He also acted as a navigator for Top Gear host Richard Hammond during an episode in the most recent series of the hit BBC show.
He added: "The cash machine is perfect for me because I am 'the only dwarf in the village.'"
A group of residents launched a campaign to save the HSBC branch last year after it was revealed that it could close.
They failed to save the branch from closure but they managed to save the cash point.
IT manager Mike Stead, from the Save Whitchurch Bank group, said: "There is another...
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Orphaned Meerkats Thrive After Being Raised on an Aga, Axe Valley Bird & Animal Park, Devon, Britain - 22 Feb 2010
NOT FOR USE ON GREETING CARDS, POSTCARDS OR CALENDARS WORLDWIDE
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Richard Austin / Rex Features ( 1128716n )
Orphaned Meerkats Thrive After Being Raised on an Aga, Axe Valley Bird & Animal Park, Devon, Britain - 22 Feb 2010
ABANDONED MEERKATS RULE THE ROOST
Brought up on an aga, abandoned meerkats Wren and Rascal had a somewhat unusual start to life.
They and a third sibling were rejected by their mother shortly after being born, tossed out of the den and into the cold.
Luckily for the tiny creatures their abandonment took place at the Axe Valley Bird and Animal Park, which is run by Jayne Collier and her husband Andrew.
Jayne is at a loss to explain why her breeding female rejected the trio, as she has raised youngsters in the past and has even gone on to raise another set since.
Whatever the reason, it was down to Jayne to become adoptive mum to the lonesome babies.
Despite her best ministrations one didn't make it, but Wren and Rascal proved to be made of tougher stuff.
The pair, who were just the size of a finger, spent their first weeks of life inside a glove on top of the Colliers' kitchen Aga
As they grew they were given free-range of the house, which brought out their destructive side.
Following their natural instincts, the dastardly duo spent their days digging and burrowing - scraping out the grouting between the kitchen flagstones and fluffing up the carpet.
And despite their shaky start in life the two certainly weren't timid; they would regularly join the humans for walks around the farm, terrifying the dogs with their sharp teeth.
Eventually Jayne built the tear-away twosome their own new pen, as they wouldn't now be welcomed back by their original family.
So as they approach their first birthday Wren and Racal are kings of their own domain and can even expect the arrival of two new females soon.
MUST CRE...
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Hibernating Dormouse rescued after nest is accidentally disturbed, Surrey, Britain - 16 Mar 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Solent News / Rex Features ( 1151316e )
Hibernating Dormouse rescued after nest is accidentally disturbed, Surrey, Britain - 16 Mar 2010
SLEEPY DORMOUSE ESCAPES UNHAPPY FATE BY NARROW SQUEAK
A hibernating dormouse curls up in the palm of a hand blissfully unaware it has been rescued from a back garden.
The tiny animal can be only be handled for a few seconds at a time because otherwise the warm touch of human skin could cause it to wake prematurely.
Dormouse expert Dave Williams saved the three-inch creature from death after it was unwittingly exposed to frost, wind and rain.
It was left in the perilous condition when a gardener accidentally raked its woven grass nest from under a hedge.
If left alone, the freezing temperatures could have killed the tiny creature or it could have struggled to find the seeds, nuts and berries to eat if woken early.
When Mr Williams was alerted to its predicament, he rescued the mouse and checked that it was ok.
He said: "A gardener was cutting back a box hedge when they noticed this tight ball of grass on the ground.
"They had seen a dormouse earlier in the year by their compost heap and suspected it may be a nest so they covered it with cuttings and called me.
"The mouse was healthy but it was too exposed and I was not prepared to leave it".
While it continues to hibernate, the mouse will now be looked after at Wildlife Aid in Surrey.
Mr Williams added: "I had to handle the mouse to check it was healthy but you can only touch it for about 30 seconds at a time.
"If it gets too hot it could trick the mouse into thinking spring has come and it will wake from hibernation.
"That is not too serious at the wildlife sanctuary because we can feed it but in the wild it would struggle to find food this early in the year".
Wildlife Aid founder Simon Cowell said: "We want it to come out of hib...
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Meerkat amongst daffodils, Axminster, Devon, Britain - Apr 2010
Not for publication - for reference only
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Richard Austin / Rex Features ( 1167009h )
Tearsheet - Metro newspaper
Meerkat amongst daffodils, Axminster, Devon, Britain - Apr 2010
(FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Star Wars fan covers body in 14 tattoos featuring characters from all six films, Swindon, Wiltshire, Britain
Mandatory Credit: Photo by M & Y Agency Ltd / Rex Features ( 1177493k )
Star Wars fan covers body in 14 tattoos featuring characters from all six films, Swindon, Wiltshire, Britain
STAR WARS FAN FEELS THE FORCE WITH 14 TATTOOS
In a galaxy not so far away one Star Wars fan has taken his love of the films to a whole new level - covering his body with tattoos of his favourite characters.
In total, amateur Jedi Knight Luke Kaye has 14 tattoos featuring iconic figures from all six films.
Images of Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Yoda, C3PO and R2D2 all jostle for space on his back.
They lie alongside Darth Maul, a Tusken Raider, a stormtropper, a Gamorrean Guard, and Admiral Ackbar.
Meanwhile, dedicated Luke, from Swindon, also has other Star Wars related tattoos on his arms and legs.
In order to amass the collection the 42-year-old has had to endure over 100 hours in the tattoo artist's chair.
Luke's first ever tattoo was of Yoda and he has gradually add more inked characters over the past five years.
And he has no intention of stopping anytime soon, with plans for more characters to form a sleeve on his one arm.
He also wants to have full-size spaceships inked down his sides.
He comments: "They take a very long time but I think it shows my love for Star Wars that I have sat through so many painful hours.
"I have to pluck up the courage to keep going back but I will not stop until I am happy - I am nowhere near finished yet".
One person who is not a fan of Luke's body art is girlfriend Debbie Mawer, 27.
Luke comments: "She does not like them. I try to sneak off and get them done on the sly.
However, he adds; "To be fair, she is fantastic. When we met she had seen only seen one of the films, but I changed that very quickly.
"Debbie quickly realised how big a part of my life Star Wars is. She loves me for me and she is hooked herself now".
Luke, wh...
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Musical goldfish plays the glockenspiel and handbells, Hudson, Wisconsin, America - 25 May 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Solent News / Rex Features ( 1187018e )
Musical goldfish plays the glockenspiel and handbells, Hudson, Wisconsin, America - 25 May 2010
TALENTED GOLDFISH MAKES BEAUTIFUL MUSIC
Say hello to the world's first musical fish, which can play the glockenspiel and handbells and loves joining in with Barbara Streisand songs.
Goldfish Jor Jor has been trained to play single notes, chords and four part harmonies by simply using her mouth.
The talented two-year-old tugs on a string attached to the instrument in perfect time to the music playing outside her tank.
And she always comes in at the same point when she hears American singer Streisand sing 'Moon River.'
Owner Diane Rains, from Hudson, Wisconsin, says five inch long Jor Jor is able to time her aquatic interventions perfectly by listening to the tune.
She said: "Jor Jor certainly is a unique musician. She likes to listen closely until a particular moment inspires her to contribute.
"At precisely the right time, she will play her bells or chimes for a few seconds only, then swim off satisfied.
"I haven't figured out how she decides when her help is needed. She does particularly like the notes F and D, so perhaps she listens for those.
"Moon River has an instrumental intro and then Streisand comes in.
"Nearly every time, Jor Jor listens for several bars, then just before the vocals began, exactly on the beat, she rings her F bell once."
Diane, 54, started training Ryukin goldfish Jor Jor a year and half ago using a training technique called positive reinforcement.
When Jor Jor performs a certain act she is rewarded and so is trained to do that act more regularly.
She said: "When the fish does a correct behaviour, I mark it with a visual click of a penlight.
"The click is immediately followed by a treat delivered with a special feeding wand. No punishment or coer...
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Baby penguin being handreared at Paultons Park, Romsey, Hampshire, Britain - 02 Jun 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Solent News / Rex Features ( 1191269h )
Baby penguin being handreared at Paultons Park, Romsey, Hampshire, Britain - 02 Jun 2010
BABY PENGUIN THRIVES AS HE PILES ON THE POUNDS
This baby humboldt penguin is piling on the pounds after being handreared by keepers at a zoo who have to weigh it daily to ensure it gets enough food.
The cute youngster's mum laid two eggs but had previously struggled to cope with two chicks so keepers decided to try rearing one themselves.
The new arrival is currently living in an incubator alongside a stuffed toy penguin for company at Paultons Park in Romsey.
The park will hold a competition to name their new arrival once a DNA test on its feathers reveals its gender.
This is likely to take a further two months, when it will grow its first waterproof coating and will be allowed to join its mum and dad back in the main pool.
It will be introduced to the water slowly, starting with just an hour a day.
The penguin - who is currently just five weeks old - will be fed liquidised fish through a syringe before moving on to slices of spratts and finally complete fish.
Senior keeper Marc Bignell, 36, said: "We have put a stuffed toy penguin in the incubator to keep him company. He likes to snuggle up next to it and seems very happy.
"We weigh him every morning and feed him ten per cent of his body weight three times a day but he never seems to think it is enough.
"It is heartbreaking when you put him back down after meal times, having given him plenty, and he screeches out for more.
"He is making very good progress and I look forward to being able to introduce him to his parents and the main pool."
The other chick was allowed to remain with its parents, aged five and eight years, but sadly died.
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Solent News / Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/EXKBPOUJZ (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Micro pig wearing wellington boots, Pennywell Farm, Devon, Britain - Jun 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Richard Austin / Rex Features ( 1194852b )
Micro pig wearing wellington boots, Pennywell Farm, Devon, Britain - Jun 2010
PIG IN BOOTS
Say hello to pig in boots.
With the weather taking a wet and windy turn, the only thing Clive the teacup piglet needs to complete his wet weather gear was his very own sow-wester.
The mini porker was forced to don the bright red Wellington boots after rain coated the yard at Pennywell Farm in Devon.
The move meant that he remained a pristine piggy and avoided muddy trotters - something he no doubt appreciated as his species are known for being scrupulously clean.
Micro pigs, which grow to just 14 inches long, are the latest pet craze with a host of celebrity owners including David and Victoria Beckham and Paris Hilton.
They are much smaller than a standard farm pig and weigh just 9oz when they are born.
At two years old they are fully grown and weigh in around 40-65 pounds and are around knee height at 12-16 inches tall.
The pigs, which cost up to GBP 700 each, can live for up to 18 years, but make popular pets as they are low maintenance, quiet and surprisingly clean.
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Richard Austin / Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/EXYEITHJK (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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'Unseen' photographs of the Beatles to be auctioned, Reading, Britain - Jul 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Bournemouth News & Pic Service / Rex Features ( 1209317z )
At Home With The Beatles
These incredible unseen photographs of the Beatles in their heyday were taken by a teenage superfan who visited the band members every weekend for two years.
Sue Baker was 15 when she began her obsession with the Fab Four in the mid-60s and is now to sell her treasured collection at auction.
She first started going to Paul McCartney's London home every week, having tracked it down from a vague description in a Beatles magazine.
He eventually asked her if she ever visited John, George and Ringo and, when she said no, he gave her their addresses which she wrote on the back of an envelope.
She spent the next two years visiting each Beatle and recalled how they always answered the door to her, were true gentlemen and happy to pose for pictures.
The snaps include colour pictures of George Harrison with Sue outside the guitarist's bungalow that was painted with gaudy psychedelic patterns.
She even sneakily got her friend to take a picture of her sitting on George's Mini car when he wasn't in - and then took a snap through his bedroom window.
On George's house you can see among the loud painting the words "Mick and Marianne were here" - referring to Mick Jagger and Marianne Faithful.
There is a picture of Sue with John Lennon who is sporting huge sideburns, and snaps of Ringo with a cigarette in his hand.
The teenage fan worked two paper rounds in her home town of Reading, Berks, so she could afford to travel by train to meet her heroes.
She often took her younger brother Phillip - then aged four or five - and he is in some of the photographs.
Phillip was about the same age as John Lennon's son Julian and sometimes the pair would play together while Sue spoke with the legendary singer-songwriter at his home in Weybridge, Surrey.
Sue, now 59, who li...
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Two crop circles featuring the face of Jesus appear in fields either side of a motorway, near Hungerford, Berkshire, Britain - 04 Aug 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Mike Walker / Rex Features ( 1214968e )
Motorway Crop Messiahs
Jesus has cropped up alongside a motorway in Berkshire.
Two crop circles depicting the face of the Messiah have appeared on either side of the M4 near Hungerford.
The two images, both 250 feet in diameter, were formed in crops of wheat.
The almost identical circles seem to portray Jesus in similar fashion to the world famous Shroud of Turin.
The Shroud of Turin is a linen cloth which many believe was the cloth used to cover Christ at the time of his burial.
As such, the imprint of a face that can be seen on the shroud is believed to be the face of Jesus himself.
Crop circle expert Karen Alexander commented: "These circles are causing quite a stir in the crop circle community.
"The last time a face appeared as a crop circle was in 2002 when an alien face appeared at Sparsholt in Hampshire.
"The farmers whose land has been used to make the circles are worried that they will be inundated with visitors seeking a religious experience".
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Mike Walker / Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/ESMABAMUD (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Man grows massive 112lb (51kg) marrow, Tylacoch, Llanharry, south Wales - 17 Aug 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Rex Features ( 1218378h )
Man Grows Mammoth Marrow
A gardener from south Wales is celebrating after growing a simply massive marrow.
Phillip Vowles, 61, of Tylacoch, Llanharry, grew the monster 112lb (51kg) vegetable in just six weeks.
And it would have grown even larger if it weren't for the fact he was forced to cut it after it began to split.
As such the keen gardener, who has been growing giant vegetables for more than 25 years, was unable to match the current world record of 206.5lb (93.7kg).
That was set last year by Brad Wursten of the Netherlands, beating the previous record set by Briton Ken Dade and his 143lb (65kg) marrow.
So, although he couldn't quite manage the world record at least Philip can console himself with the thought he is the proud owner of the 2nd largest marrow in Britain.
And he isn't beaten yet; ahead of next month's Llanharry Giant Vegetable Show he has vowed to keep growing in an effort to produce an even more mammoth marrow.
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/ELJVZQLEX (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Baby owl brothers play together, Pueblo, Colorado, America - 23 Aug 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Rob Palmer/Solent News / Rex Features ( 1221571f )
Brotherly Love As Young Owls Share A Playful Peck
Spotting the perfect moment to surprise his unwitting sibling, this crafty six-week-old owlet swoops in with his talons outstretched.
Caught completely unawares, his brother is almost bowled over backwards by the playful ambush.
Clearly pleased with his sneaky attack, the cheeky youngster then goes on to use his surprised sibling's head as a perch.
But showing that there's no hard feelings playtime for the young owls finishes with a cute display of affection that sees one giving the other a peck on the cheek.
The heartwarming antics of the two burrowing owls was captured by wildlife photographer Rob Palmer.
The 57-year-old was on the look out for burrowing owl dens in Littleton, Colorado when he came across the pair, who are part of a brood of six.
As their name suggests, burrowing owls nests underground in burrows that have been abandoned by animals like prairie dogs and badgers.
Rob said: "I spend a lot of time looking for burrowing owl dens, which are fairly common where ever you can find a prairie dog colony.
"There were six owlets in this brood and they would play in the early morning.
"I managed to get about 30 feet from them to take the pictures and, after a while, they had no problem with me being there. They were very tolerant of my presence.
"These two are just having fun so neither got hurt."
The burrowing owl grows to around 10 inches in length and has a wingspan of 21 inches.
The small, long-legged species is found is usually found in the dry, open areas of North and South America.
Unlike their nocturnal relatives, these owls tend to be at their most active during day-light hours.
They hunt for food from dusk to dawn and their diet consists mainly of insects and small rodents.
But living on t...
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Rolling Stones themed Monopoly game launched, Britain - 27 Aug 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Solent News / Rex Features ( 1221529r )
Rock And Roll Of The Dice
Rock legends The Rolling Stones are giving fans the chance to go to jail without passing go by releasing their own version of the classic board game Monopoly.
Mick Jagger and co will hope to get some satisfaction by replacing property such as Old Kent Road with names of iconic albums such as 'Beggars Banquet'.
'Wild Horses' will not stop fans from tumbling dice but instead of moving a thimble around the board it will be a set of devil horns - a reference to their hit single 'Sympathy for the Devil'.
The famous community chest and chance cards have not escaped the Stones treatment either and are now famous titles and lines from the band's songs.
Fans have found they can always get what they want with the traditional four train stations being redesigned with names of the band's tours such as Urban Jungle.
But if players get into trouble they will not be exiled on Main Street - they will still be sent to jail without passing go.
Rolling Stones fan Jim Carrell, 48, said: "I've been a fan of the Stones all my life and will definitely be going out to buy this version of Monopoly.
"They are one of the best bands ever, with an incredible back catalogue, and definitely deserve to be paid tribute to in this way.
"Monopoly is the biggest game in the world and it just shows how important the Stones are that they were chosen for a new version of the game."
The iconic Monopoly money has been changed to concert tickets while houses and hotels which players would traditionally buy are now gold and platinum records.
Whereas in the past players would have to cough up after landing on the income tax and super tax squares, they now have to pay for concert tickets and stage set up.
And the water works and electric company are now drums and guitar. They can be mortgaged fo...
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Man becomes first person in world to catch 1,000 different species of fish, San Ramon, California, America - 02 Sep 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Steve Wozniak/Bournemouth News / Rex Features ( 1222421w )
The Fishy 1,000 That Failed To Get Away
An ace angler has broken the ultimate fishing record by becoming the first person in the world to catch 1,000 different species of fish.
Steve Wozniak, 47, from from San Ramon, California, has spent 10 years pursuing the astonishing quest that has seen him fish in 63 different countries.
He has spent 20,000 hours on riverbanks, piers, beaches and boats waiting for a bite for fish ranging from a tiny minnow to a 900lbs shark.
Steve has forked out more than GBP 50,000 and racked up over one million air miles criss-crossing the globe with his rod and tackle over the last decade.
The record rodman has fished on every continent bar Antarctica, including places as far reaching as Cambodia to the Isle of Wight.
He has snared virtually every freshwater fish native to Britain and spent two years and GBP 4,000 alone trying to capture an Atlantic salmon in Scotland.
Steve has also broken 12 International Game Fishing Association records along the way and has another five pending.
His mammoth efforts finally paid off when he snared a 2lbs coalfish in a Norwegian fjord to net the record that is being dubbed the 'Cast of a Thousand'.
Steve now intends to temporarily hang up his rod to write a book about his angling adventures.
He said: "It is very humbling to be the only person in the world to catch 1,000 different species of fish.
"It has been an almighty challenge and one where there have been many highs and many lows, like trying to catch a tench fish which seemed to elude me for seven years.
"When I caught the coalfish I think I expected it to be this big fanfare event but I was sat in a boat in a peaceful fjord an hour below the Arctic circle.
"I just sort of sat there with a glow of accomplishment."
Steve caught his first fish at the age...
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Man becomes first person in world to catch 1,000 different species of fish, San Ramon, California, America - 02 Sep 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Steve Wozniak/Bournemouth News / Rex Features ( 1222421x )
The Fishy 1,000 That Failed To Get Away
An ace angler has broken the ultimate fishing record by becoming the first person in the world to catch 1,000 different species of fish.
Steve Wozniak, 47, from from San Ramon, California, has spent 10 years pursuing the astonishing quest that has seen him fish in 63 different countries.
He has spent 20,000 hours on riverbanks, piers, beaches and boats waiting for a bite for fish ranging from a tiny minnow to a 900lbs shark.
Steve has forked out more than GBP 50,000 and racked up over one million air miles criss-crossing the globe with his rod and tackle over the last decade.
The record rodman has fished on every continent bar Antarctica, including places as far reaching as Cambodia to the Isle of Wight.
He has snared virtually every freshwater fish native to Britain and spent two years and GBP 4,000 alone trying to capture an Atlantic salmon in Scotland.
Steve has also broken 12 International Game Fishing Association records along the way and has another five pending.
His mammoth efforts finally paid off when he snared a 2lbs coalfish in a Norwegian fjord to net the record that is being dubbed the 'Cast of a Thousand'.
Steve now intends to temporarily hang up his rod to write a book about his angling adventures.
He said: "It is very humbling to be the only person in the world to catch 1,000 different species of fish.
"It has been an almighty challenge and one where there have been many highs and many lows, like trying to catch a tench fish which seemed to elude me for seven years.
"When I caught the coalfish I think I expected it to be this big fanfare event but I was sat in a boat in a peaceful fjord an hour below the Arctic circle.
"I just sort of sat there with a glow of accomplishment."
Steve caught his first fish at the age...
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/EZY
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Vulture and jackal fight over food, Drakensburg National Park, South Africa - 25 Sept 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Michael Hofmeyr/Solent News / Rex Features ( 1232498h )
Day Of The Jackal
This cheeky jackal was lucky to escape with just a few scratches when she took on a feisty vulture for a scrap of food.
The pair came to blows after the hungry animal spied the three-feet tall bird gnawing on a juicy bone and attempted to dash off with it.
But she obviously didn't bargain for the vulture's fighting spirit.
Determined to keep the tasty treat to itself the bird lashed out with its talons and the jackal was quick to retaliate with her sharp teeth.
Despite nearly losing her eyes in the vicious battle, the jackal's fierce determination paid off and she got to keep the stolen bone.
The spectacular sight was snapped by Michael Hofmeyr as he hiked with his wife in the Drakensburg National Park, South Africa.
The 37-year-old bird enthusiast, who lives in Johannesburg, said it was the first time he'd witnessed such a brawl between the two species.
He said: "We were watching the vulture picking on some bones when we noticed the jackal sneaking up on the vulture from behind a ridge.
"The jackal appeared nervous and came and went two or three times before deciding to have a go.
"When the jackal finally plucked up the courage he made a lightning dash for the bone that the vulture was busy with.
"But the bird was in no way prepared to relinquish it and a fight ensued. At first the vulture appeared to be getting the upper hand by going for the jackal's eyes.
"But the jackal spun around and bit the vulture several times, after which the vulture let go of the bone and flapped away.
"The jackal appeared unharmed and ran off. The vulture initially looked slightly the worse for wear but he managed to fly away."
Mr Hofmeyr, who works as an I.T. security consultant, added: "I've never seen anything like it before; it's quite an unusual thing...
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World's biggest skateboard, California, America - 14 Oct 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by California Skateparks/Solent / Rex Features ( 1232705j )
Gnarly Ride On The World's Largest Skateboard
Designers have created the world's biggest ever skateboard, measuring a staggering 36ft 7in long.
It is an exact replica of a normal skateboard but is 12 times longer, wider and taller.
The world record-breaking skateboard is so big it has to be fitted with racing tyres from a car and transported on a flat bed truck.
It cost over GBP 12,600 to make, weighs 260 stones and can be ridden by up to ten people at a time.
Three people spent one month making the board from steel, wood and grip tape at California Skateparks.
Joe Ciaglia, a director of the park, designed the board, which measures 3ft 7in tall and 8ft wide.
The huge board has been certified by the Guinness Book Of World Records as the World's Largest Skateboard.
Joe said: "The board is about fun - it was fun to build, it is fun to ride and it is fun to see everyone's reaction to it."
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: California Skateparks / Solent / Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QTPZYWNPK (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Patricia Vidal, mother of Madonna's new boyfriend Brahim Zaibat, Lyon, France - 03 Nov 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Paul Cooper / Rex Features ( 1246074h )
Madonna Is Dating My Son, Reveals Frenchwoman
A mother has spoken of her shock at discovering that her 24-year-old son is Madonna's new boyfriend.
Frenchwoman Patricia Vidal said her son Brahim Zaibat, a dancer working in New York, broke the news to her over the telephone.
Telling the 44-year-old that he had a new girlfriend Brahim also mentioned an eight year age difference.
Something, says Ms Vidal, she was unconcerned about, telling her son that it would do him good to spend time with someone older.
"No," Zaibat reportedly replied. "She's eight years older than you, Mum - and her name is Madonna".
Speaking from her ninth-floor flat on a council estate in Lyon Ms Vidal said that she was shocked by the revelation, calling it "surreal".
Zaibat reportedly met the 52-year-old Queen of pop in September when he was dancing at the launch of her new line of clothes at Macy's department store in New York.
Following the event Madonna asked the young dancer out and they have apparently been inseparable ever since.
However, the age difference isn't the only obstacle in the way of their relationship. For example,
Zaibat's English is said to be poor, while Madonna speaks no French.
And then there is Zaibat's religion; according to Ms Vidal the strict Muslim prays several times a day and shuns alcohol and cigarettes.
Before Zaibat, Madonna dated another 24-year-old - Brazilian Jesus Luz.
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Please refer to individual images for credit
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QQEWEQDQC (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Squirrel falls off wet bird feeder, Acle, Norfolk, Britain - Sep 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Jeremy Durkin / Rex Features ( 1247403e )
Squirrel Whoops-kin
This squirrel got more than it bargained for when it attempted to steal a tasty treat.
Showing off its acrobatic abilities the hungry animal nimbly clambered onto a bird feeder.
Having managed to navigate the hook that the plastic feeder was hanging from it was then just a paws breadth away from its prize.
However, the unwary animal saw its lunch quite literally slip through its fingers when the feeder prove to be a tough nut to crack.
Unable to get a good grip on the plastic the squirrel found itself beginning to slip.
And despite a desperate grapple to find a paw hold the slick surface proved too much for the unlucky creature as it slid clean off the feeder.
Thankfully, it suffered no ill effects from the embarrassing event other than damaged pride and a rumbling stomach.
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Jeremy Durkin / Rex Features
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Albino squirrel fattens up for winter, Croydon, south London, Britain - 20 Nov 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Rex Features ( 1251226n )
Albino Squirrel Fattens Up For Winter
This albino squirrel seems to have eaten all the nuts as he busily fattens himself up for Christmas.
Squirrels don't hibernate but as the weather gets colder they put on up to 25% of their bodyweight in fat reserves to help them get through the winter.
And with his distinctive all white appearance this albino squirrel, spotted in a park in Croydon, has an even harder life then his red and grey coloured counterparts.
Albino squirrels often have a much shorter lifespan because their colouring makes them easy targets for predators
So not only does this busy squirrel have to consume as much food as possible, he also has to avoid becoming anything else's lunch.
This particular pale animal is helped in his task by willing humans, to whom he has become so accustomed he will eat of their hands.
Albinism is a rare condition that is inherited and caused by a melanin deficiency which affects only 1 in 100,000 squirrels.
Despite the rarity the South Croydon/Purley/Wallington area of South London seems have been home to a population of Albino squirrels since the Victorian era.
Indeed the local museum even features an albino squirrel discovered in the area during the 1890s.
Meanwhile, another stuffed squirrel can also be found eating his fill of nuts in a park not too far away.
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Rex Features
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14-year-old hides pregnancy from parents until two days before birth, Romford, Essex, Britain - Jul 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Jeremy Durkin / Rex Features ( 1256954o )
My 14-Year-Old Hid Her Pregnancy
Leanne was 14 when she fell pregnant. She spent the next nine months doing everything possible to hide her growing secret from her parents.
She finally only came clean and informed them she was having a baby just two days before her due date.
Today, though she wouldn't recommend enduring a pregnancy without telling family and friends, Leanne says she's glad she kept her baby a secret or he might not be here.
Her mum Hazel, 56, explains how she didn't realise her daughter was pregnant for nine months.
As I snuck a look at my 14-year-old daughter Leanne watching TV in those awful tracksuit bottoms and baggy jumper, I couldn't help but wonder...was she trying to hide something?
Don't be silly, I told myself. That's just what teenagers wear these days.
It wasn't like Leanne had boys calling at all hours. In fact she'd only ever had one boyfriend - Matt.
He was a nice quiet lad, training to be an electrician. But it was hardly 'love's young dream' - they only saw each other now and then.
Of course, I'd given her 'the chat' and told her if she was having sex to make sure she was being careful.
'Mum!' she said, her face colouring. And that was that - end of conversation.
But baggy clothes or not she was definitely putting on weight.
However, Leanne was always going on about how fat she was, even back when she was a size 10, and I didn't want to upset her. So I kept quiet.
After all, she was still going to college every day, studying for her GCSEs. What did I really have to nag her about?
But a few months on even the baggy clothes were getting tighter. I waited until we were driving home from the supermarket and took a deep breath
"You're not pregnant are you, love?" I asked.
"'Don't be stupid, Mum!" she snapped. "As if!"
Relief washed over me an...
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Ginger the cat who accidentally dialled 999, Swansea, Wales - 09 Dec 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Rex Features ( 1259672c )
Long Arm Of The Paw: Sleeping Cat Calls 999
A bemused pet owner was left with a lot of explaining to do after his cat dialled 999.
Howard Moss, 64, from Swansea, was woken up in the middle of the night by police officers banging on his door.
After letting them in a bleary-eyed Mr Moss discovered that they were responding to an emergency call from his home in which no message had been left.
Denying all knowledge of the summons, Mr Moss and the officers were puzzled until it became apparent that there was a cat burglar in the house - in the form of Mr Moss' cat Ginger.
Mr Moss recalls: "One of them [the police officers]noticed Ginger asleep on the phone table. The phone was off the hook and Ginger had a paw on the phone keyboard".
Somehow the resourceful feline had managed to unhook the phone before tapping out 999.
It is thought Ginger managed the feat while fast asleep on a table next to Mr Moss' phone.
The red faced pet owner was left apologising, though officers took the false alarm in good humour.
Meanwhile, Ginger remained singularly unperturbed by all the disruption he had caused.
Speaking about the incident Mr Moss, who has owned Ginger for 12 years, commented: "He has never dialled a phone number before; the chances of it happening must be so small."
A spokesman for South Wales Police confirmed that officers had responded to an emergency call.
They commented: "It would appear that the call was made as a result of a family cat laying across the phone.
"It was a purrfect ending for everyone."
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Rex Features
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Handcrafted, colourful coffins by Paa Joe, London, Britain - 12 Dec 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Guy Lowndes/Solent News / Rex Features ( 1259969n )
Colourful Coffins That Are Works Of Art
These beautifully crafted sculptures may look like works of art but they have been hand built by one of the world's greatest carpenters - as coffins.
The colourful and intricate caskets are worth thousands of pounds and come in various shapes and sizes.
They have been constructed by master coffin carver Paa Joe, 65, who has been making coffins for more than 50 years.
His range includes funeral palls shaped like cars, jets, fish, eagles and cocoa pods.
They are made in Ghana, where a tradition of elaborate coffins is especially strong among the south-eastern Ga people.
They value coffins as a status symbol and a spiritual way of remembering the deceased's job or personality.
Paa Joe designed one casket in the shape of a plane for a 91-year-old grandmother who often dreamed of flying, even though she had never boarded an aircraft.
Families commission the coffins to represent the achievements or personality of the dead and designs include Bibles and cameras. Collectors buy them for up to GBP 6,500.
Sometimes the deceased will have prepared a design brief during their lifetime. Coffins are made of wood and then painted.
A coffin in the form of an African eagle with painted gold feather markings is generally made for chiefs and is lined with silk and red textiles.
The deceased's body is washed, dressed, adorned and laid out with the coffin open during the wake. The coffin is then closed and carried to the burial ground.
Paa is currently showing some of his work at the Jack Bell Gallery in London.
Jack Bell said: "The works are all iconic symbols of local life. The golden African eagle, fish, Air Ghana jet and Cocoa pod are testament to the vibrancy of West African culture.
"These works blur the line between art and craft. They are not dea...
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Baby orangutan makes 24-hour journey to new home in first class ferry cabin, Britain - 17 Dec 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Monkey World/Solent News / Rex Features ( 1264870k )
Baby Orangutan Cruises To New Home In Style
A critically endangered orangutan abandoned by his mum has cruised to a new home in comfort - in his own first class cabin.
Baby Silvestre - who celebrates his first birthday on New Year's Eve - dined on citrus fruit and milk as he made the 24-hour crossing to Portsmouth, Hants.
Brittany Ferries gave the nappy-wearing primate a private four-bed suite for the 690-mile trip aboard the Cap Finistere from Santander, Spain.
Silvestre spent most of his time exploring his surroundings and swinging from ladders and bunkbeds in his 150 pounds-a-night room.
But he was also allowed to visit Captain Patrick Thomas on the bridge.
Keepers at Santillana Zoo, Spain, raised the Sumatran orangutan by hand for 11 months after his mum simply put him down and walked away.
The keepers also accompanied him on his trip.
He is now starting a new life at Europe's only cr (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Fat cat Giuly becomes internet sensation, Florence, Italy - 30 Nov 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Chiara Bagnol/Solent News / Rex Features ( 1254203g )
Fat Cat Laps Up Fame
This tubby kitty has become an unlikely internet sensation after gaining thousands of fans on a website.
Five-year-old exotic shorthair Giuly shot to internet fame when her owner uploaded a set of photos of her online in a variety of different poses.
The fat cat, who weighs in at six kilos, has a legion of devoted followers from as far afield as America and Spain who regularly keep up to date with her antics.
Besotted owner Chiara Bagnoli, 28, has snapped hundreds of photos of her beloved cat doing things such as wearing a father Christmas hat and playing in the garden.
Teacher Chiara, 28, said: "A lot of people tell me that they really enjoy looking at Giuly's photos, they find them funny or cute and that fills me with joy.
"The reaction to her photos was surprising. She's the star of my website, there are other photos on there, but Giuly captures all the attention.
"My family adores Giuly's photos, they like to see them online and they show them to their friends.
"She's a really lovely cat, very sweet and quiet. She needs a lot of love and follows me everywhere like a dog, we even go walking together.
"She's quite playful, but very lazy. Strangely, she likes to go outside and hug trees and she also loves the rain and goes outside to shower herself."
Chiara, from Florence, Italy, added: "We got her from a pet shop and she has always been a quiet and happy cat who has no fear of humans.
"She's so photogenic because she has a lot of funny, wonderful expressions on her face.
"In my photos I try to make people understand her personality."
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Chiara Bagnol / Solent News / Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QIEFTFXRN (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Fat cat Giuly becomes internet sensation, Florence, Italy - 30 Nov 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Chiara Bagnol/Solent News / Rex Features ( 1254203h )
Fat Cat Laps Up Fame
This tubby kitty has become an unlikely internet sensation after gaining thousands of fans on a website.
Five-year-old exotic shorthair Giuly shot to internet fame when her owner uploaded a set of photos of her online in a variety of different poses.
The fat cat, who weighs in at six kilos, has a legion of devoted followers from as far afield as America and Spain who regularly keep up to date with her antics.
Besotted owner Chiara Bagnoli, 28, has snapped hundreds of photos of her beloved cat doing things such as wearing a father Christmas hat and playing in the garden.
Teacher Chiara, 28, said: "A lot of people tell me that they really enjoy looking at Giuly's photos, they find them funny or cute and that fills me with joy.
"The reaction to her photos was surprising. She's the star of my website, there are other photos on there, but Giuly captures all the attention.
"My family adores Giuly's photos, they like to see them online and they show them to their friends.
"She's a really lovely cat, very sweet and quiet. She needs a lot of love and follows me everywhere like a dog, we even go walking together.
"She's quite playful, but very lazy. Strangely, she likes to go outside and hug trees and she also loves the rain and goes outside to shower herself."
Chiara, from Florence, Italy, added: "We got her from a pet shop and she has always been a quiet and happy cat who has no fear of humans.
"She's so photogenic because she has a lot of funny, wonderful expressions on her face.
"In my photos I try to make people understand her personality."
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Chiara Bagnol / Solent News / Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QIEFTFXRN (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Fat orangutan at the Taman Safari Park near Jakarta, Indonesia - 04 Jan 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Solent News / Rex Features ( 1269593f )
Who Ape All The Pies?
It looks like this orangutan needs to go on a New Year's diet.
Louise Bleakly, 69, snapped the portly primate as she lazed by a tree after over-indulging.
The sedentary creature soaked up the midday sun at Taman Safari Park near Jakarta, Indonesia - and was too lazy to even swing on the trees and ropes.
Louise, a retired social worker, said: "These orangutans were all in a special enclosure which was a wide-open, lush, green area.
"There were about 20 orangutans and they were going about their daily lives, which looked much like ours on occasion.
"It was around noon time at the park and it was rather hot.
"There was an area where the orangutans could swing in the trees but I only saw one using the rope.
"The orangutans in question seem to lead a sedentary way of life.
"The really plump ones look like females.
"There were male orangutans in the enclosure and they were all of normal weight and more animated."
Louise, from California, United States, added: "Later in my trip, I observed orangutans in the wild in Borneo in a conservation area.
"It seemed to me that the orangutans in captivity used more human-like gestures."
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Louise Bleakly / Solent News / Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QKEWYFNOS (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Fat orangutan at the Taman Safari Park near Jakarta, Indonesia - 04 Jan 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Solent News / Rex Features ( 1269593e )
Who Ape All The Pies?
It looks like this orangutan needs to go on a New Year's diet.
Louise Bleakly, 69, snapped the portly primate as she lazed by a tree after over-indulging.
The sedentary creature soaked up the midday sun at Taman Safari Park near Jakarta, Indonesia - and was too lazy to even swing on the trees and ropes.
Louise, a retired social worker, said: "These orangutans were all in a special enclosure which was a wide-open, lush, green area.
"There were about 20 orangutans and they were going about their daily lives, which looked much like ours on occasion.
"It was around noon time at the park and it was rather hot.
"There was an area where the orangutans could swing in the trees but I only saw one using the rope.
"The orangutans in question seem to lead a sedentary way of life.
"The really plump ones look like females.
"There were male orangutans in the enclosure and they were all of normal weight and more animated."
Louise, from California, United States, added: "Later in my trip, I observed orangutans in the wild in Borneo in a conservation area.
"It seemed to me that the orangutans in captivity used more human-like gestures."
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Louise Bleakly / Solent News / Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QKEWYFNOS (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Cheeky squirrel manages to eat half a coconut suspended on piece of rope, Hindhead, Surrey, Britain - 16 Jan 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Mike Walker / Rex Features ( 1271257k )
A Tough Nut To Crack
According to the saying there's more than one way to crack a nut - something this cheeky squirrel went all out to prove.
When faced with a Mission Impossible - namely nibbling on a coconut suspended above the ground - this grey squirrel wasn't fazed.
Scampering up the pole the tempting treat was hanging from, the nimble squirrel then hung from its toes in a bid to get a paw on the nut.
Finding temptation just out of claw's reach the crafty creature then had to employ some acrobatic manoeuvring.
Eventually it shimmied down the twine the coconut was hanging from - clinging on for grim life as it began to swing.
Despite the precarious position it found itself in, the squirrel still somehow managed to feast on the coconut while desperately holding on.
In doing so it managed to beat Alice Hancock's attempts to stop squirrels stealing the food she puts out for birds in the garden of her home in Hindhead, Surrey.
Alice, 38, rigged up the pole and suspended the coconut from it thinking it would be out of reach of squirrels.
However, it took just a just a few minutes for this cheeky grey to work out how to get its dinner.
Alice said ''I'm determined to get the better of him but its back to the drawing board in my battle of wits with the little pest''.
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Mike Walker / Rex Features
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Some of world's rarest birds captured on camera - 25 Jan 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Geoffrey Robinson / Rex Features ( 1275599n )
World's Rarest Birds Captured On Camera
These remarkable pictures reveal some of the world's rarest birds - which have only ever been photographed by a handful of people.
The unique shots were captured by patient photographers who travelled to some of the remotest places on the planet and spent weeks behind the lens.
They are all winning entries in an international competition to secure images of the 566 most threatened birds on Earth.
They are to be featured in a new book, The World's Rarest Birds, which aims to highlight the plight of these endangered birds.
"These are all incredibly rare birds and capturing them on camera shows a huge commitment by each photographer," said Andy Swash, a member of the World's Rarest Project team.
"You can't just go out into your back garden and get these shots. These birds live in really remote locations.
"Once you have got there you often have to spend hours waiting to see these and getting any image, let alone the one you want, could take weeks or months."
One of the most spectacular images shows a Kakapo, a flightless parrot from New Zealand, taken by photographer Shane McInnes.
There are just 124 of these birds remaining in the wild, but amazingly this picture was snapped on a compact camera just a metre or so away from the parrot.
"Very few people have been fortunate to get that close to a Kakapo. But they are not used to predators and are not worried by humans so Shane has ended up was able to take this fantastic shot," added Andy.
Another image shows a Brazilian Merganser with its eight young ducklings, which can only be found on fast-flowing rivers in central Brazil and north-eastern Argentina.
The population is less than 250 and decreasing due to pollution and changes in water flow.
The Christmas Island Frigatebird, captured in fligh...
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Some of world's rarest birds captured on camera - 25 Jan 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Geoffrey Robinson / Rex Features ( 1275599o )
World's Rarest Birds Captured On Camera
These remarkable pictures reveal some of the world's rarest birds - which have only ever been photographed by a handful of people.
The unique shots were captured by patient photographers who travelled to some of the remotest places on the planet and spent weeks behind the lens.
They are all winning entries in an international competition to secure images of the 566 most threatened birds on Earth.
They are to be featured in a new book, The World's Rarest Birds, which aims to highlight the plight of these endangered birds.
"These are all incredibly rare birds and capturing them on camera shows a huge commitment by each photographer," said Andy Swash, a member of the World's Rarest Project team.
"You can't just go out into your back garden and get these shots. These birds live in really remote locations.
"Once you have got there you often have to spend hours waiting to see these and getting any image, let alone the one you want, could take weeks or months."
One of the most spectacular images shows a Kakapo, a flightless parrot from New Zealand, taken by photographer Shane McInnes.
There are just 124 of these birds remaining in the wild, but amazingly this picture was snapped on a compact camera just a metre or so away from the parrot.
"Very few people have been fortunate to get that close to a Kakapo. But they are not used to predators and are not worried by humans so Shane has ended up was able to take this fantastic shot," added Andy.
Another image shows a Brazilian Merganser with its eight young ducklings, which can only be found on fast-flowing rivers in central Brazil and north-eastern Argentina.
The population is less than 250 and decreasing due to pollution and changes in water flow.
The Christmas Island Frigatebird, captured in fligh...
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QBASSTYFD
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Amateur photographer spends 12 months setting up shot to capture kingfisher diving for a minnow, Swords, County Dublin, Ireland - 25 Jan 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Noel Marry/Solent News / Rex Features ( 1276708g )
Animal Lover Waits 12 Months To Capture Kingfisher Dive
A dedicated animal lover got this perfect photo of a kingfisher catching a fish after patiently spending a whole year setting up the shot.
After months of fruitless waiting Noel Marry was close to giving up on his dream of photographing the brightly coloured bird diving underwater for a minnow.
However, just as he was about to abandon his quest his efforts were rewarded with these stunning pictures.
In order to capture the shots he built a fish tank in which he placed a minnow before almost completely submerging it in Broadmeadow River in County Dublin, Ireland.
He then built a tempting perch above the tank and over the course of several months a kingfisher got used to fishing its lunch out of the tank.
Noel, 53, got the idea after watching a BBC documentary about the notoriously shy bird.
Gradually, he was able to lift the tank further out of the water in order to get a clearer shot.
Eventually he was able to snap the bird with the tank completely out of the river as it dived headlong into the water to catch its prey.
Noel built a hide for himself metres away from the tank so he didn't scare off the bird and operated the camera by a remote control.
Noel said: "I was absolutely delighted when I got the set of photos. I would sit and wait for hours with my camera and sometimes the bird wouldn't even show up.
"I was starting to get downhearted and just when I thought about packing it all in it just happened. It was really special".
He added: "I use a remote operated camera so I didn't even know whether I had the photos until I checked.
"I was nervous because the week before I thought I got the snaps but my camera had jammed after it took the first frame.
"The camera takes 10 shots a second and it has to be quick be...
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Ambam the gorilla, who walks upright like a human at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, Kent, Britain - 26 Jan 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Jo Wheatley/Solent News / Rex Features ( 1276636d )
The Gorilla Who Apes Man By Striding Upright
A Silverback gorilla called Ambam has become an internet sensation after being filmed walking upright.
A video clip shows the 21-year-old casually strolling around his enclosure at the Port Lympne Wild Animal Park in Kent.
The 18-second piece of footage has now become the latest YouTube sensation, viewed by 150,000 people over the last few days.
Gorillas usually prefer to get around by 'knuckle walking' - using the padded backs of their front hands to support their huge weights as they move around the floors of forests or zoo enclosures.
However, they will also stand on two legs to reach branches or get a better view, and can walk upright, swinging their arms parallel to their opposite legs to counterbalance their weight.
Keeper Ingrid Naisby, who has worked with Ambam for 16 years, said: "It's quite unusual in gorillas but Ambam does it quite often and he can balance very well. Other gorillas do it occasionally, but he will do it for a bit of a distance.
"He's always liked to stand up. It's about getting his balance right and he's well practised. He has perfected it".
Ambam was born at Port Lympne's sister park, Howletts, in 1990 before being moved to Port Lympne aged seven.
He is now the park's largest gorilla at an impressive 34 stone and when standing upright he is 6ft tall.
The footage of him was taken by animal researcher Johanna Watson while she was working for a project on great ape locomotion.
Keeper Phil Ridges said: "Ambam's father Bitam used to display the same behaviour if he had handfuls of food to carry.
"We think he might use it to get a height advantage to look over the wall when keepers come to feed him and standing up can also help him in looking for food generally in his enclosure as it gives him a better vant...
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Ambam the gorilla, who walks upright like a human at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, Kent, Britain - 26 Jan 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Jo Wheatley/Solent News / Rex Features ( 1276636e )
The Gorilla Who Apes Man By Striding Upright
A Silverback gorilla called Ambam has become an internet sensation after being filmed walking upright.
A video clip shows the 21-year-old casually strolling around his enclosure at the Port Lympne Wild Animal Park in Kent.
The 18-second piece of footage has now become the latest YouTube sensation, viewed by 150,000 people over the last few days.
Gorillas usually prefer to get around by 'knuckle walking' - using the padded backs of their front hands to support their huge weights as they move around the floors of forests or zoo enclosures.
However, they will also stand on two legs to reach branches or get a better view, and can walk upright, swinging their arms parallel to their opposite legs to counterbalance their weight.
Keeper Ingrid Naisby, who has worked with Ambam for 16 years, said: "It's quite unusual in gorillas but Ambam does it quite often and he can balance very well. Other gorillas do it occasionally, but he will do it for a bit of a distance.
"He's always liked to stand up. It's about getting his balance right and he's well practised. He has perfected it".
Ambam was born at Port Lympne's sister park, Howletts, in 1990 before being moved to Port Lympne aged seven.
He is now the park's largest gorilla at an impressive 34 stone and when standing upright he is 6ft tall.
The footage of him was taken by animal researcher Johanna Watson while she was working for a project on great ape locomotion.
Keeper Phil Ridges said: "Ambam's father Bitam used to display the same behaviour if he had handfuls of food to carry.
"We think he might use it to get a height advantage to look over the wall when keepers come to feed him and standing up can also help him in looking for food generally in his enclosure as it gives him a better vant...
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Robin makes home in 12th-century St Mary's Church, Portchester Castle, Hampshire, Britain - 29 Jan 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Mike Walker / Rex Features ( 1277464j )
Bird Of Pray
He doesn't look like a bird of pray but this robin has joined the human flock at a 12th century church in Hampshire.
The friendly bird flew into St. Mary's church, which stands in the grounds of Portchester Castle, in December while seeking sanctuary from the freezing weather.
Obviously finding the accommodation to his liking, the feathered worshipper has remained ever since.
Reverend Charlie Allen first spotted the bird sitting on a pew as she prepared for a service and was amazed when the bird allowed her to walk right up to it without flying off.
Since then the robin has hardly left the building and now even has its own snack bar with seed, mealworms and fat balls in a corner of the church.
He has also proven to be a very vocal member of the flock, loving nothing better than joining in with the hymn singing.
Rev. Allen said: "He is an amazing bird and seems to love all the attention from the congregation and he just loves the services but can be quite noisy.
"He joins in the hymns and makes as much racket as he can. He has been a big hit at weddings and even lightens the atmosphere at funerals".
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Mike Walker / Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QRTFRMDYO (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Robin makes home in 12th-century St Mary's Church, Portchester Castle, Hampshire, Britain - 29 Jan 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Mike Walker / Rex Features ( 1277464k )
Bird Of Pray
He doesn't look like a bird of pray but this robin has joined the human flock at a 12th century church in Hampshire.
The friendly bird flew into St. Mary's church, which stands in the grounds of Portchester Castle, in December while seeking sanctuary from the freezing weather.
Obviously finding the accommodation to his liking, the feathered worshipper has remained ever since.
Reverend Charlie Allen first spotted the bird sitting on a pew as she prepared for a service and was amazed when the bird allowed her to walk right up to it without flying off.
Since then the robin has hardly left the building and now even has its own snack bar with seed, mealworms and fat balls in a corner of the church.
He has also proven to be a very vocal member of the flock, loving nothing better than joining in with the hymn singing.
Rev. Allen said: "He is an amazing bird and seems to love all the attention from the congregation and he just loves the services but can be quite noisy.
"He joins in the hymns and makes as much racket as he can. He has been a big hit at weddings and even lightens the atmosphere at funerals".
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Mike Walker / Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QRTFRMDYO (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Robin makes home in 12th-century St Mary's Church, Portchester Castle, Hampshire, Britain - 29 Jan 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Solent News / Rex Features ( 1277467g )
Bird Of Pray
A tame robin has become a surprise addition to a historic church's flock and even joins the congregation for Sunday services, weddings and funerals.
Reverend Charlie Allen, 31, is delighted with her new feathered parishioner who has taken to making loud vocal contributions during her sermons and hymns.
She first spotted the bird inside St Mary's Church at Portchester Castle, Hants, when there was a heavy snowfall last month.
Since then it has made the 12th Century Anglican church overlooking Portsmouth
Harbour its home.
The friendly male bird is enjoying seed and water left out for it by the vicar and is even treated to crumbs of cake by people who are visiting specifically to take its picture.
Rev Allen said: "This robin is just so wonderfully tame - and also wonderfully noisy!
"If there is a service going on in the church he will be right in the middle making as much racket as he can.
"He has a beautiful birdsong and the church has very good acoustics so he is always heard.
"He is generally very nosey. He really likes to get amongst things and some days he goes to sit with the choir.
"The regular congregation are all quite at ease with him flying around during a service.
"For weddings it has been very touching and poignant to have him with us. Sometimes I think more pictures are taken of him than anyone else.
"And even at funerals he has lightened the atmosphere."
Rev Allen added: "I don't know a lot about birds but I have been astonished just how tame he is.
"He eats out of people's hands and visitors to the church are delighted.
"He moved in when we had a cold snap. He will occasionally fly outside but if he comes back to find the door closed, he'll wait by it to be let back in again.
"He seems to be very at home and must be nesting inside som...
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Lionesses covered in mud after chasing prey into water hole at Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa - 14 Aug 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Solent News / Rex Features ( 1278150d )
What A Lion-mess
These three lionesses got themselves in a mess after becoming well and truly stuck in the mud.
The trio got caked in muck after chasing their prey into a partially dried up water hole.
However, the three seemed to take it all in their stride and didn't even bother to move to harder ground before tucking in to their treat.
After satisfying their appetites the group emerged, their golden coats matted in a thick coat of mud.
The extraordinary sight was snapped by photographer Andy Biggs while on a photographic safari in the Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa.
The 41-year-old, from Houston, Texas, America, has been leading safaris for eight years but admitted he'd never seen anything like it.
He said: "We were on an afternoon game drive, and decided to stop by a water hole that is more commonly used by the resident elephant, rhino and giraffe population.
"We were surprised to find a group of three lions.
"They had trapped their kill in a muddy, dried up water hole, and began eating it right in front of us.
"One of them sat upright on a high perch, and I had never seen such a muddy lion before, or much less any predator with that much mud on it."
He added: "I enjoy witnessing and photographing unique moments in nature - this was one of the most unique shots I have ever taken."
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Andy Biggs / Solent News / Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QRKGPZFYS (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Lionesses covered in mud after chasing prey into water hole at Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa - 14 Aug 2010
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Solent News / Rex Features ( 1278150e )
What A Lion-mess
These three lionesses got themselves in a mess after becoming well and truly stuck in the mud.
The trio got caked in muck after chasing their prey into a partially dried up water hole.
However, the three seemed to take it all in their stride and didn't even bother to move to harder ground before tucking in to their treat.
After satisfying their appetites the group emerged, their golden coats matted in a thick coat of mud.
The extraordinary sight was snapped by photographer Andy Biggs while on a photographic safari in the Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa.
The 41-year-old, from Houston, Texas, America, has been leading safaris for eight years but admitted he'd never seen anything like it.
He said: "We were on an afternoon game drive, and decided to stop by a water hole that is more commonly used by the resident elephant, rhino and giraffe population.
"We were surprised to find a group of three lions.
"They had trapped their kill in a muddy, dried up water hole, and began eating it right in front of us.
"One of them sat upright on a high perch, and I had never seen such a muddy lion before, or much less any predator with that much mud on it."
He added: "I enjoy witnessing and photographing unique moments in nature - this was one of the most unique shots I have ever taken."
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Andy Biggs / Solent News / Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QRKGPZFYS (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Owl tries to swallow a frog whole, Cape Coral, Florida, America - 19 Jun 2008
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Michael Cenci/Solent News / Rex Features ( 1279363g )
Frog In the Throat
This owl was left with a huge pair of frog's legs dangling from its beak when it tried to eat breakfast in one go.
The bird, which stands ten inches tall, struggled to gulp down its prey as it stood in a grassy field.
Photographer Michael Cenci, 56, captured the moment when he went in search of burrowing owls while on holiday near Cape Coral in Florida.
He was delighted with his picture, which he called "Frogleg Moustache" because the legs look like a bizarre handlebar tache.
He said: "I'm always looking for something unique.
"Through some research I discovered that the area around Cape Coral has the largest population of burrowing owls in North America.
"Since that was a bird I had never photographed before I made it a mission for my holiday.
"The birds like to nest in brushy open fields, so I set off before sunrise and drove around looking for the right habitat.
"As the sun came up I found a good looking field and decided to explore it.
"Right away I saw a couple of owls in the distance.
"I crawled through the grass staying low and got within 30 feet of them, and I noticed one had something hanging out of his mouth.
"The bird looked right at me but wasn't bothered by how close I was.
"So I just started shooting as the owl ate the frog's legs, I assume it had already eaten the rest of the frog."
Michael, from Florida, added: "Frogs and other small reptile and mammals are normal prey for the owls.
"I was very happy to have my first pictures of a burrowing owl turn out to be something unusual."
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Michael Cenci / Solent News / Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QRPSSOPGL (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Graham Waspe with his guide dogs Edward and Opal, Stowmarket, Suffolk, Britain - 10 Mar 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Albanpix Ltd / Rex Features ( 1294891l )
The Guide Dog With A Guide Dog
Following six years of loyal service guide dog Edward was left unable to carry out his job after going blind.
Owner Graham Waspe was devastated when his faithful canine companion had to have both his eyes removed after developing inoperable cataracts.
But there has been a happy ending for Edward and Graham, from Stowmarket in Suffolk, with the arrival of new girl Opal.
Now Opal acts as the eyes for both Graham and Edward, who is now living out a well deserved retirement.
Despite being unable to see eight-year-old Edward, who is otherwise healthy, has shown no sign of slowing down.
Graham, who is registered blind, has only limited vision in one of his eyes due to two separate incidents earlier in his life. He was partnered with Edward in 2004
He says that he and his wife Sandra were left devastated last summer when vets told them that they would have to remove Edward's eyes.
However, Edward appears to have adapted well and gets on with two-year-old Opal, who arrived shortly after his operation.
He also apparently loves to be around children and having his tummy tickled.
Now Graham, Edward and Opal raise awareness of the Guide Dogs charity by visiting local schools and community groups.
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Albanpix Ltd / Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QFTYTJKUV (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Graham Waspe with his guide dogs Edward and Opal, Stowmarket, Suffolk, Britain - 10 Mar 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Albanpix Ltd / Rex Features ( 1294891m )
The Guide Dog With A Guide Dog
Following six years of loyal service guide dog Edward was left unable to carry out his job after going blind.
Owner Graham Waspe was devastated when his faithful canine companion had to have both his eyes removed after developing inoperable cataracts.
But there has been a happy ending for Edward and Graham, from Stowmarket in Suffolk, with the arrival of new girl Opal.
Now Opal acts as the eyes for both Graham and Edward, who is now living out a well deserved retirement.
Despite being unable to see eight-year-old Edward, who is otherwise healthy, has shown no sign of slowing down.
Graham, who is registered blind, has only limited vision in one of his eyes due to two separate incidents earlier in his life. He was partnered with Edward in 2004
He says that he and his wife Sandra were left devastated last summer when vets told them that they would have to remove Edward's eyes.
However, Edward appears to have adapted well and gets on with two-year-old Opal, who arrived shortly after his operation.
He also apparently loves to be around children and having his tummy tickled.
Now Graham, Edward and Opal raise awareness of the Guide Dogs charity by visiting local schools and community groups.
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Albanpix Ltd / Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QFTYTJKUV (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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House that looks like Hitler becomes internet sensation, Swansea, Wales - 29 Mar 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Rex Features ( 1301947h )
'Hitler' House Becomes Internet Sensation
A house in Wales has become an internet sensation - because it bears a resemblance to Adolf Hitler.
The black slanting roof on the end-of-terrace house in Port Tenant, Swansea bears a likeness to the Fuhrer's slicked down, side-parted hair.
Meanwhile, the front door lintel brings to mind his distinctive toothbrush moustache and the small top windows his eyes.
The house's unusual looks were first commented upon by Twitter user Charli Dickenson.
According to Ms Dickenson she snapped a picture of the house while driving past it with her boyfriend.
When she commented on it on Twitter it was then picked up by comedian Jimmy Carr, which ensured that it became one of the site's most discussed topics.
The house belongs to a pensioner who is said to be baffled by all the attention.
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QXTFQNRPO (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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House that looks like Hitler becomes internet sensation, Swansea, Wales - 29 Mar 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Rex Features ( 1301947i )
'Hitler' House Becomes Internet Sensation
A house in Wales has become an internet sensation - because it bears a resemblance to Adolf Hitler.
The black slanting roof on the end-of-terrace house in Port Tenant, Swansea bears a likeness to the Fuhrer's slicked down, side-parted hair.
Meanwhile, the front door lintel brings to mind his distinctive toothbrush moustache and the small top windows his eyes.
The house's unusual looks were first commented upon by Twitter user Charli Dickenson.
According to Ms Dickenson she snapped a picture of the house while driving past it with her boyfriend.
When she commented on it on Twitter it was then picked up by comedian Jimmy Carr, which ensured that it became one of the site's most discussed topics.
The house belongs to a pensioner who is said to be baffled by all the attention.
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QXTFQNRPO (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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House that looks like Hitler becomes internet sensation, Swansea, Wales - 29 Mar 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Rex Features ( 1301947j )
'Hitler' House Becomes Internet Sensation
A house in Wales has become an internet sensation - because it bears a resemblance to Adolf Hitler.
The black slanting roof on the end-of-terrace house in Port Tenant, Swansea bears a likeness to the Fuhrer's slicked down, side-parted hair.
Meanwhile, the front door lintel brings to mind his distinctive toothbrush moustache and the small top windows his eyes.
The house's unusual looks were first commented upon by Twitter user Charli Dickenson.
According to Ms Dickenson she snapped a picture of the house while driving past it with her boyfriend.
When she commented on it on Twitter it was then picked up by comedian Jimmy Carr, which ensured that it became one of the site's most discussed topics.
The house belongs to a pensioner who is said to be baffled by all the attention.
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QXTFQNRPO (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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Newborn who didn't breathe for 17 minutes was saved by being put in a 'fridge' for three days, Gosport, Hampshire, Britain - 14 Mar 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Solent News / Rex Features ( 1301786f )
Ice Ice Baby: Newborn 'Frozen' To Save Her Life
A baby girl who failed to breathe for 17 minutes after birth was miraculously saved when doctors put her in a 'fridge' for three days.
Little Sophie Fleet suffered complications at birth and swallowed fluids which caused a blockage in her airways and starved her brain of oxygen.
It took 17 minutes for her to start breathing on her own and doctors were worried that she might suffer brain damage.
So they decided to lower Sophie's temperature from its normal 98F (37C) to 92F (33.5C) for three days in a bid to stop her brain swelling.
Temperatures this low bring on hypothermia but in controlled conditions can reduce pressure on the brain, allowing it to recover from trauma.
Sophie had to wear a special 'fridge' suit, which was pumped with water to keep her body cool.
Her parents couldn't hold her for six days and had to wait for scans to show the extent of any brain damage.
They say the first few days of her life were like a nightmare.
Dad Cain Fleet, 35, from Gosport, Hampshire, said: "It was really distressing. Sophie wasn't breathing to begin with and so her brain started to swell.
"They whisked her away when she was born and then someone told us that they were cooling her body. We'd never heard of the treatment before.
"Hypothermia is quite dangerous. We were amazed they could use it in a controlled manner to heal. It's incredible.
"The doctors had to work on her for seven hours before we were allowed to see her and it was a further six days before we could hold her.
"Once they had her stable, the specialist explained to us what they had done so we didn't get too panicked by all the machines monitoring her and the tubes going into her.
"They explained that they had to bring her temperature down to 33.5 degrees and put her...
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QAYAXBVUJ
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Lightning over the Dorset coast, Britain - 06 May 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Geoff Moore / Rex Features ( 1315468d )
Amateur Photographer Captures Amazing Picture In A Flash
When a amateur photographer made a lightning decision to get out his camera he managed to capture a stunning image of a thunderstorm over his home town.
The fantastic display of forked lightning across parts of Weymouth in Dorset shows a huge bolt striking into the sea.
Self-taught amateur photographerJustin Turner, 21, had been keen to capture some images of storms so when he knew that thunder was forecast he made plans to find a suitable location.
Driving to the top of 200 foot cliffs at Portland he set up his camera and tripod then waited as the storm slowly got closer to him.
After about half an hour he started to get some lightning shots but he stayed focused and was determined to do better whilst he was there.
(FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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School boy wears a skirt to school in a protest against a uniform ban on shorts at Impington Village College, Cambridge, Britain - 10 May 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Geoffrey Robinson / Rex Features ( 1319264l )
Schoolboy Refuses To Skirt Around The Issue Of Shorts
A 12-year-old boy has worn a SKIRT to school in protest at a uniform ban on shorts.
Chris Whitehead wore the short black girl's skirt for his classes at Impington Village College, Cambs, because he believes its "no shorts" policy discriminates against boys in the summer.
The Year 8 student, who has borrowed the skirt from his younger sister, said wearing long trousers in the heat is affecting his ability to study in class.
Chris, who is a member of the school's student executive, also plans to march with other pupils in a bid to overturn the school's policy on shorts.
"I feel it is unfair that girls are allowed to wear skirts and have bare legs in the summer but we have to wear long trousers," said Chris, from Histon, Cambs.
"I think the uniform policy discriminates against boys.
"I believe if we are more comfortable we will work much better so if the policy is changed it will improve our learning.
"I started wearing the skirt to school yesterday and if nothing happens I'll continue to wear it."
The school banned summer shorts two years ago after a consultation on the school's uniform policy between staff, parents and pupils.
But Chris is hoping this can now be reviewed in light of the recent unusually hot, sunny weather and will speak at the school assembly next week dressed in his skirt.
His dad Brian Whitehead, 48, and mum Elizabeth Hill, said they were very proud of their son, who they described as a "budding politician."
"I'm very proud as he has thought of this campaign completely off his own back," said Brian.
"He is very interested in representing his friends at the school and speaking out on their behalf.
"They are fed up and want a more open uniform policy.
"There is nothing in the school rules against boys we...
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QMYVSCEJP
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Robin examines itself in a mirror placed on the ground, Fareham, Hampshire, Britain - 03 May 2011
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Mike Walker / Rex Features ( 1321356j )
The Prettiest Birdie Of Them All?
Mirror mirror on the wall who is the prettiest birdie of them all?
This robin appears fascinated by its own reflection as it peers into a shiny surface.
The moment took place after photographer Mike Walker put a mirror down in his garden in Fareham, Hampshire to see how the birds would react.
And rather than be startled by its reflection, or see it as a rival to chase off, this robin was eager to examine itself from all angles.
Returning several times it cocked its head this way and that and opened and closed its wings - as though trying to find its most photogenic side.
At one point the hungry creature even brought its lunch of tasty grubs along so that it could get a closer look.
Speaking about the bird's antics Mike said: "The robin couldn't get enough of itself".
MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY: Mike Walker / Rex Features
For more information visit http://www.rexfeatures.com/stacklink/QPWJJCOWQ (FOTO:DUKAS/REX)
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