Polar Amore: 14 Wildlife Pics to Warm up Your Valentine’s Day

Singles, couples, quarrels, cuddles

Contrary to common belief, Valentine's Day is not just for couples.

At least not in the polar regions: In the Arctic, Antarctica, and certain undisclosed areas of the sub-Antarctic, the third-century Roman priest now known as Saint Valentine is held in particularly high esteem.

Indeed, his February 14th holiday is observed among both the lovestruck and lovesick, sweethearts and singles, the cutest penguins down to the wartiest walruses.

With that in mind, we've compiled 14 pictures celebrating the many faces of polar love. Some show its sugary side, some its fiery side, but all are sure to make your Valentine's Day a little warmer - whether this is a holiday you dismiss or adore.

1. Black-browed albatrosses with breeding on the brain

2. Southern elephant seals engaged in aggressive nuzzling

3. White terns of a feather flocking together

4. Walruses locked in a cute(ish) aquatic kiss

5. Rockhopper penguins experiencing love's rockier roads

6. Spitsbergen reindeer watching each other's backs

7. Polar bear and cub taking cuteness to a whole other level

8. Fur seal practicing his "come hither" pose

9. Sooty albatrosses unbothered by love's occasional storms

10. Arctic fox deciding whether to eat or adore

11. Humpback whales ready to live true to their name

12. Gentoo penguins speaking through deep, soulful looks

13. Arctic hare unimpressed by all forms of romance

14. Unidentified species enjoying the scenery