Every fall, the monarch butterflies migrate back to their breeding grounds in California. These fascinating and stunningly beautiful creatures weigh only a gram, yet travel extraordinary distances to complete their lifecycle. In the early spring, deep in the Yosemite valley, the sun warms the wet ground, forming clouds of misty fog.

Alive since ancient times, the giant sequoia trees stand colossal and majestic. Deep in the valley, a pair of coyote hunt in the winter snow, while in the Mojave Desert, Joshua trees and cactus plants have adapted to survive the searing heat.

Life can be hard in the Californian desert, but many plants and animals are adapted to survive the hot, dry conditions. Jackrabbits, owls, hummingbirds, and the green stick tree all thrive in this harsh climate as they wait for the rare blessing of rain.

The harbor seals gather in a sheltered cove to give birth. But even hidden from predators, there is no guarantee of survival, and we witness the tragic death of one newborn that gets trapped in its amniotic sac. Within a few hours, the pups that survive the birth are already into the waves, getting to know their new watery world.

Off the coast of California, an island of floating kelp provides refuge for fish in the open waters. The many small fish then attract larger species, including the ocean sunfish that seek relief from their parasites, and the predatory blue shark.

Queen: Very funny “interview” with Freddie wearing a Jimmy Carter mask.

R.E.M. lead singer Michael Stipe talks about the band’s new album, his view on and experience with lip syncing and why he is unlikely to do a live album.

Michael Stipe talks about the tour called “The Work Tour”, and how the album “Document” is tied to the American work ethic.

R.E.M. lead singer Michael Stipe promotes the show Indie Rocks on the Independent Film Channel.

This is the second part of the IFC commercial featuring Michael Stipe.

R.E.M. talk about the creative process involved in the making of their albums. Collapse Into Now, their final album, was produced by Jacknife Lee, who has also worked with artists such as U2 and The Killers.

Rachel gives some helpful tips on sounding more like a native speaker when you introduce yourself in English.

Rachel takes us through different ways of pronouncing the "you" in the phrase "Nice to meet you," and introduces us to a new friend of hers.

Nisha Vora, chef and creator of the vegan food and lifestyle website “Rainbow Plant Life," shares her top ten tips for improving your home cooking! And these tips aren't just for vegans, but really for anyone who would like to become a better cook.

Nisha continues with more ideas to enhance our home cooking. Moving from herbs to acidic ingredients such as citrus zest, she suggests surprising ways to balance and bring out flavors in our food.