Denver, Colorado, USA

It's National Wildlife Week. That means it's time to take stock of the world's endangered species, of which the Siberian Tiger is one.  In the wild, in the Russian Far East and nearby China, Siberian Tigers number less than 250. Who has been their main predator? Homo sapiens. To the Denver Zoo for participating in the Species Survival Plan: Спасибо. [2013]

Atlanta, Georgia, USA

It is National Wildlife Week.  We should all be thankful that some animals are not living in the wild and, therefore, vulnerable to the predatory species known as homo sapiens. Human animals are not always humane animals. Asante sana, Zoo Atlanta, for welcoming four lion cubs into the world just this year. Here is one of them with dad, enjoying the morning sun. [2014]

Gambier, New Providence, The Bahamas

Tourists visit resorts in The Bahamas and conclude that the entire archipelago is equally prosperous. It's not. Although tourism is responsible for more than half of The Bahamas' jobs, the wealth generated is locked up in places like this, while the so-called 'family islands' go begging for infrastructure and development. [2014]

Wemyss Bight, Eleuthera, The Bahamas

Generations pass, technologies evolve, standards change, and preferences progress. Soon the size, style, and building materials of homes are outmoded. As new houses are built, old ones are abandoned. Decay takes over. For a time, they remain with us as visual reminders of the past, but eventually even their foundations disappear. [2014]

Deep Creek, Eleuthera, The Bahamas

Girls rule, and roof too. To help with home repairs, Bahamas Methodist Habitat looks for volunteers to bring a better tomorrow to the island of Eleuthera (so very far from the Bahamas' wealthy resorts). Many homeowners simply can't afford the extraordinary costs demanded by island economies. Beneath these shingles, the fear of rain will soon be over. [2014]

Red Hook, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

Red Hook is on the East End of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands. Pillsbury Sound lies beyond. Ferry connections are available to Charlotte Amalie, St. John, and Tortola. That's a lot of place names, but hearing each one is like receiving an invitation to explore. [2014]

Hong Kong S.A.R., China

The fragrant harbour isn't so fragrant any more, but the urban landscape looks tidy and almost inviting from this perspective. Just think what the view must be like from one of those towers. By the way, Hong Kong means "fragrant harbour." [2011]