As winter"s grip on the Rila Mountains of southwestern Bulgaria begins to loosen, crocuses push through the thinning snow, signaling the arrival of spring in the country"s highest mountain range. These early bloomers use stored nutrients to quickly grow in cold conditions, completing much of their life cycle before taller plants emerge. Their clustered blossoms unfurl over alpine meadows in sweeping purple ribbons, creating a striking contrast with bright snowfields and crisp morning light.
Purple crocus flowers, Seven Rila Lakes, Bulgaria
Today in History
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National Public Lands Day
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Iceland awaits the Yule Lads
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Flock together for Cousins Day
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Autumnal equinox
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Bláhver, Hveravellir, Iceland
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How Quảng Ngãi got its grove back
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The dog days of summer
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Mid-Autumn Festival
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Yarn for Distaff Day
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Singing praises of the oceans
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Castellfollit de la Roca, Catalonia, Spain
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Yellowstone for the National Park Services birthday
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Borrego Badlands
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Porto, Portugal
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A learning garden
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And you thought moths were boring
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World Lizard Day
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Sea Otter Awareness Week
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For the love of bikes
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