The iconic fountain show at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip had an unexpected interruption on March 5 when a yellow-billed loon, a rare bird not commonly found on the U.S. mainland, landed in the water. The hotel staff took to Twitter to share the unique occurrence, expressing their delight at welcoming such an exclusive guest. The fountains were temporarily paused, and the hotel collaborated with state wildlife officials to ensure the safe rescue of the bird, which had sought refuge in what the staff humorously dubbed “Las Vegas’ own Lake Bellagio.” The unusual visit of this Arctic-dwelling bird brought attention not only to the rare sighting but also to the conservation concerns surrounding its vulnerability.

The yellow-billed loon, typically residing in the Arctic and along the Pacific mainland, is considered “vulnerable” by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Its appearance in the Las Vegas area was highly unusual, leading experts to speculate that the younger bird might have strayed off course during migration. While initially hesitant to disturb the loon, wildlife officials decided to intervene on Wednesday due to concerns about its access to food. After a successful capture, the bird was carefully examined for injuries and then relocated to the Wetlands, a more suitable and remote location about 5 miles from the Strip, providing it with ample resources for sustenance and a peaceful environment. The event not only showcased the adaptability of nature but also highlighted the importance of conservation efforts for rare and vulnerable species.

Nestled beneath the vibrant city lights of Las Vegas is an unusual real estate offering: a 15,000-square-foot underground bunker frozen in time, both literally and figuratively. Built in 1978, this underground residence is a unique piece of property, listed at a significantly reduced price of $5.9 million, down from its original $18 million price tag in 2019. The bunker, curated by the Stasis Foundation, is a time capsule decorated in authentic 1970s style, complete with period-specific furniture and décor. Lighting cleverly mimics the changing times of day, and the “outdoor” area even boasts a pool, creating a surreal experience for anyone seeking a trip back in time.

Realtor Stephan LaForge, handling the sale, notes that the price adjustment reflects the range of offers the property has garnered since its initial listing. Despite the unconventional nature of the bunker and its niche market, the seller remains committed to highlighting its distinctive value. LaForge estimates that replicating such an eccentric property could cost up to eight times the current asking price, emphasizing the rarity and exclusivity of this subterranean haven.

The Stasis Foundation, the property’s current owner, acquired it in 2015 for $1.15 million through a bank auction. As a foundation dedicated to cryogenics, the science of freezing humans and organs to advance scientific research, the bunker’s unique ambiance adds an intriguing layer to its history. Over the years, LaForge has hosted tours for potential buyers with diverse visions for the space, ranging from a musician eyeing it as a concert venue to a pinball machine curator exploring it as storage for his collection. The bunker’s potential remains as diverse as the imagination of those intrigued by its retro allure and the unconventional possibilities it presents. Take a tour of the surreal bunker through the selected images below.