8Blood Falls, Antarctica: A Red River of Mystery
Antarctica is known for its vast, icy landscapes, but one of its strangest features is the appropriately named Blood Falls. Located in the McMurdo Dry Valleys, Blood Falls is a bright red stream of water that oozes out from the Taylor Glacier. The sight of blood-red water flowing over pristine white ice is startling and eerie.
The strange color of the water is caused by iron-rich brine that oxidizes when it comes into contact with the air, giving it a blood-like appearance. Scientists believe that this salty water has been trapped beneath the glacier for millions of years, making Blood Falls not only one of the weirdest places on Earth but also a window into ancient, subglacial environments.
