A Wild Year On Earth

It's the start of the year. Arctic winds plunge the polar bear into a deep freeze, while in Australia, the heat offers a feast for one bird of prey. (1 of 6)

Spring begins in the Northern Hemisphere as cherry blossoms bloom across Japan. In India, a congregation of wild Asian elephants coincides with the colourful Holi festival. (2 of 6) Also in UHD.

May brings violent tornados to North America and the life-giving monsoon to India. The dry season ends in southern Africa, claiming victims among elephants. (3 of 6) Also in UHD.

In July, Arctic ice sheets crash into the sea while an arctic fox hunts among the rocks. In Africa, herds of wildebeest cross the croc-infested Mara river. (4 of 6)

Rain welcomes baby meerkats to the Kalahari. The arrival of spring in eastern Australia ignites the passions of everything from kangaroos to humpback whales. (5 of 6)

New & Exclusive. Millions of monarch butterflies converge in the forests of Mexico. The Arctic skies blaze with the aurora borealis as Earth completes its annual cycle. (6 of 6) Also in UHD.