In addition to a number of surprising viral videos, this year saw some big discoveries and exciting coverage by National Geographic explorers and storytellers, from a mesmerizing time-lapse of bees to a disturbing encounter involving a toilet.

Some of our favorite videos of the year include:

1. Bees in Time-Lapse

National Geographic photographer Anand Varma made this time-lapse video of bee larvae hatching and growing up before our eyes. In order to capture this unique look at nature, Varma spent six months with a beehive that he set up in his workshop.

The project gave him a new respect for beekeepers as well as the industrious insects. The video went viral around the world.

2. A “Desert Goddess” Remembers a