The book “Forests” by Kieron Connolly unveils a mystical world for readers.
The book features 220 photographs capturing a journey through various forests across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and Asia. In the image, the Quiver Tree Forest is located in southern Namibia. The San people, the oldest indigenous inhabitants of South Africa, have used the quiver tree to create weapons such as arrows and spears. This forest consists of around 250 quiver trees. Additionally, it is home to the rock hyrax—a rodent that measures up to 50 cm but has close relatives in elephants.
Pisgah National Forest (North Carolina, USA) is one of the first national forests in the eastern United States. The forest features a variety of colorful trees, creating a mesmerizing view from above.
Daintree National Park (Queensland, Australia) is home to palm trees that can grow up to 2 meters tall. Their canopies form almost perfect circles. The cassowary bird particularly enjoys eating the leaves of this tree. On the other hand, Australians also use the leaves for food packaging.
Not only do the forests above ground amaze, but the book also reveals the underwater forests to readers. In the image, the kelp forest in California (USA) is showcased. The author adds: “The forest acts as a cycle of the sea. Kelp absorbs carbon dioxide, reducing ocean acidification. It also releases oxygen into the water.”
This photograph was taken in Colombia. In this country, the Quindio wax palm is regarded as the “national tree.” It is the tallest palm species in the world, averaging about 45 meters in height. This palm only grows in certain mountain forests in Colombia and Peru.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a famous tourist destination in Kyoto (Japan). Enjoying the scenery of this forest is enough to soothe your soul. “The sound of the wind whistling through the treetops. The sound of the trees knocking against each other. The rustling of bamboo leaves… All of these have placed Arashiyama on the list of ‘100 scenic spots’ recognized by the Japanese government. These are 100 destinations for people to escape the city and enjoy fresh air,” quotes the book Forests.
Spanning approximately 17,300 hectares, Irati Forest is home to towering oak and fir trees in Spain.
The Dragon Blood Tree is one of the most intriguing plant species in the world. This dragon blood tree forest is located in Yemen. The number of these trees is significantly declining due to the devastation caused by storms. Additionally, it is also affected by overgrazing of goats. The red resin of the tree is used as a dye.
The image of the Rainbow Eucalyptus was taken in a forest in Hawaii, USA. This is the only eucalyptus species that grows in tropical forests. Its origins trace back to Indonesia, the Philippines, and New Guinea.
The Crooked Forest in Poland contains about 400 pine trees that are oddly bent. This forest was planted in the 1930s. It is highly likely that these pines were manipulated by human hands to create such a shape.
Located in the Min Mountains in southwest China, Jiuzhaigou Valley is famous for its 100 crystal-clear lakes. The mineral deposits beneath create stunning blue, green, or turquoise waters.
Gorbeia Natural Park is a natural park located in the Basque Country, northern Spain. The oak trees here have unusual shapes, with roots growing above the ground while branches stand upright.
