A Chimpanzee opens its Christmas presents at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo on December 17, 2013 in Bedfordshire, England. (Photo by Tony Margiocchi/Barcroft Media)

A man carrying butchered dogs drives past a pet dog at a dog meat market in Yulin, Guangxi Autonomous Region, June 21, 2015. (Photo by Kim Kyung-Hoon/Reuters)

This is the amazing moment a heroic hippo saved a gnu from certain death. After being bitten by a crocodile, the large antelope is seen being dragged slowly under the water. But in a miraculous turn of events, a nearby hippo is seen making its way across the water to help the animal in its hour of need. Photo: One of the biggest hippos protects the gnu as it makes its way back to the shoreline, guarding it from any further attacks. (Photo by Vadim Onishchenko/Caters News)

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and these striking images of 2017 are no exception. The photo highlights include incredible snapshots of the natural world as well as some awesome animal and human encounters. The vibrant gallery also shows thrill-seekers pushing themselves to the limit with breathtaking stunts captured in perfect clarity. The pictures have been taken by a host of photographers from around the world. Here: The two lion cubs singing their hearts out at Antelope park in Zimbabwe. (Photo by David Jenkins/Caters News Agency)

A barking-mad designer, Leah Workman, has launched a range of wigs that turn pets into pop princesses including Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, and even Marilyn Monroe. Photo: Lady Gaga wig. (Photo by Cushzilla/BNPS)

French tennis champion Suzanne Lenglen (1899–1938) high-kicking during a doubles match at the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships. (Photo by Kirby/Topical Press/Getty Images). 1924

A model displays the collection of Italian luxury brand Diesel at its China's first flagship shop unveiling ceremony, at Henglong Plaza on November 26, 2005 in Shanghai, China. (Photo by China Photos/Getty Images)