Animals

Scientists Use a CT Scanner to Give Whales a Hearing Test

There's a lot we don't know about how whales hear.

Scientific Reports, Fernando Ramirez Rozzi

Humans Might Have Practiced Brain Surgery on Cows 5000 Years Ago

The practice of drilling holes into skulls goes back millennia.

15 Incredible Facts About Pigeons

They were beloved by both Charles Darwin and Nikola Tesla.

'Angry Badger' Terrorizes Scottish Castle, Forcing Closures

Staff baited the badger with cat food and honey, to no avail.

15 Delightful Facts About Dolphins

Dolphin calves are born tail first, rather than head first, so that they don't drown during the birthing process. Read on for 14 other facts about these fascinating creatures.

Watch a 'Bat Volcano' Erupt in Mexico

It's not a literal volcano—but it is a sight to behold.

How to Identify Insects Just By Looking at Their Mouths

It's a skill any amateur bug hunter can learn.

The Color Dictionary Darwin Used to Describe the Natural World, Pre-Pantone

Here's how naturalists and scientific illustrators used to cope.

7 Fast Facts About Animal Farting

Farts really can be deadly.

Why Do Animals Have Whiskers?

From cats and dogs to rats and seals, animals use whiskers to help them find their way and follow their prey.

Glacier National Park Cameras Capture a Black Bear Waking Up From Hibernation

We don't blame this bear for wanting to stay in its tree.

This Paper Is Designed to Feed Bees

Bee populations are at risk, and this paper is made to help save them.

Scientists Capture the First Footage of an Anglerfish’s Parasitic Mating Ritual

Oh my.

Cockroach DNA Shows Why They're Basically Indestructible

They have killer immune systems.

25 Facts About Puppies

In honor of National Puppy Day, here are 25 things everyone should know about these very good four-legged snuggle buddies.

Cow Manure and Elephant Dung Could Be Used to Make the Paper of the Future

The cellulose in animal dung has already been processed, making paper manufacturers' jobs easier.

iStock // Heinrich Hoffmann/Keystone Features/Getty Images // collage by Jen Pinkowski

When German Scientists Tried to Rename Bats and Shrews, Hitler Threatened to Send Them to War

An excerpt from Michael Ohl's 'The Art of Naming.'

Remembering Sudan, the World's Last Male Northern White Rhino

Following age-related complications, Sudan—the last male northern white rhinoceros alive—was euthanized by a team of vets in Kenya in March 2018. But his genetic material could still be used to help save the species.