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Smithsonian Voices

Special Report

Alaska

Alaska is nicknamed "The Great Land," and for good reason: it is wild, rugged and expansive. In a series of articles, Smithsonian magazine explores the history, culture and natural wonders of the 49th state.

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Photo of the day

I took this photo during a trip to dive with Northern Gannets in Shetland. This species is Scotland's largest seabird, and they are remarkably adept in the water, with the ability to dive to depths as deep as 72ft, hitting the water at speeds of up to 60mph! At these speeds, being among dive-bombing gannets can be chaotic, but I'm glad this shot was able to depict some of the dynamic motion of the
experience. Shetland is home to the UK's seventh largest colony of Northern Gannets. In the past, the population has been estimated at around 25,000 birds, though their numbers were unfortunately severely reduced by the avian flu outbreak. It is unclear when, or if, their
population will be able to recover. Divebomb