High Definition Birds

Following the inspired creation and release of 'Creature' and 'Wisdom' Andrew Zuckerman has just released his latest book of amazingly detailed photos simply entitled 'Bird'. The book features at least 75 species of birds shot on his trademark white background, allowing their vibrant colours and detail to jump off the page in a way that has never been seen before.

For more images, click here

Awesome Nature

Mike Hollingshead has been chasing storms and capturing natures extreme and awesome influence on Earth for almost 11 years. His photographs capture the scene in a way rarely seen. I would love to see these photographs on a grand scale and even more to see these scenes in real life, it must be an exhilarating experience.

To see more check out his site; www.extremeinstability.com

Arctic Britain

A return to the norm but thanks for the snow - We've been blessed with a sustained period of snow on which to ride, slide, photograph and enjoy. Getting up this morning to the usual grey, rainy landscape was a disappointment but before the Great Thaw takes hold have a look at this amazing photo of 'Arctic Britain Jan 2010' as seen from space.

Link here for super high res version 

 

Stealth Mission

A few photos taken last night between rides at the local piste. Beautiful, still, quiet, and super cold evening. Awesome backdrop to some quality powder runs.

Click the images to see the higher res versions.

Undeck The Halls

Not quite as fun as putting up and decorating the Christmas tree but taking down the tree on 12th night doesn't have to be the end.

- Chop the tree into firewood and kindling - A standard Noble Fir can be turned into more than 13 pounds of firewood to keep you warm in the winter months. Take care when burning this type of wood as it contains a large amount of sap, that can spit.

- Grind the tree and use as mulch in gardens, trails or in animal stalls.

- If sunk into lakes and ponds Christmas trees provide great refuge and nutrients for fish. You must obviously seek permission first.

- Christmas trees make effective errosion barriers on beaches, streambeds and lakes. Sunk into the sand the trees help to bind the sand and provide a firm base from where plants can take hold and further reinforce the ground.

- Pack the needles into small sacks, place behind radiators to keep that fresh pine smell wafting around the house.

The average Christmas tree takes an average of 8 years to grow from a sapling which is itself 3 years old.

During this time, they replenish the air with oxygen. Just one acre of Christmas trees produces enough oxygen to support eighteen people.

Tree farms provide habitat for birds and other wildlife.

Due to their hardiness, Christmas trees are often planted where few other plants grow, thereby increasing soil stability.

For each Christmas tree cut on tree farms, 2 or 3 new seedlings are planted.

All Snow & No Work, Horay!

Photos by Andy, James & Laura