Each weekday morning, OurAmazingPlanet takes the pulse of the Earth, reporting on natural phenomena and exploration news from around the globe.

Polar Swim: One polar bear recently showed off its endurance by swimming continuously for nine days. The bear covered 426 miles (687 kilometers) according to a new study.

Chinese Drought: A big wheat-growing province in China is facing its worst drought in a century.

Baby Gorilla: A newborn gorilla debuted at Sydney's Taronga Zoo. The baby's name is Kipenzi, which is Swahili for "Precious One." See video of the newborn here.

Previously on Our Daily Planet: Weirdest Imperiled Animals and Brutal Cold Weather

Reach OurAmazingPlanet staff writer Brett Israel at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter @btisrael.