Category: Animals

Thimbles, small enough to fit on a fingertip, have a history spanning centuries and cultures. First used in ancient Rome—bronze examples were found in Pompeii—they evolved from simple sewing tools into decorative status symbols made from silver, gold, porcelain, and more. By the Middle Ages, Nuremberg was famed for brass thimble production, and by the…

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Ecologists at Mt. Gibson Wildlife Sanctuary in Western Australia have celebrated an extraordinary milestone: the birth of the first baby western quolls, also known as chuditch, at the site. During a routine survey, researchers discovered the tiny marsupials nestled safely in their mothers’ pouches — a clear sign that reintroduction efforts are paying off. For…

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The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive insect first found in Pennsylvania in 2014. It has since spread rapidly, threatening crops, trees, and ecosystems. How They Harm Plants Lanternflies pierce plants to suck sap, weakening them and making them vulnerable to disease. They also excrete honeydew, which promotes black sooty mold that blocks sunlight…

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Most people find slugs gross—but these slimy creatures play surprisingly important roles in nature, science, and even skincare. In the wild, slugs act as nature’s cleanup crew. They feed on decaying plants and fungi, helping recycle nutrients back into the soil. This improves soil health and supports plant growth. They’re also a key food source…

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It turned out to be a Gaboon viper. I still thank my lucky stars I didn’t linger — had I stayed even a second longer or tried to reach for it out of curiosity, things could’ve taken a deadly turn.So, what exactly is a Gaboon viper? The Gaboon viper (Bitis gabonica) is one of the…

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A few weeks ago, I was out in the backyard battling my ancient, wheezy old lawnmower when something happened that made my skin crawl—literally. My golden retriever, Mochi, was stretched out under our big oak tree, basking in the shade while I pushed along in the heat, when I suddenly felt that unmistakable itchy-crawly sensation…

Continue Reading “Bitten by a Lone Star Tick? Here’s What You Need to Know—and What to Do Immediately” »

Plaster bagworms, or kamitetep, are destructive household pests commonly found in warm, humid areas like closets, basements, and garages. Part of the same family as clothes moths, they are most damaging in their larval stage, when they build portable cases from silk, lint, and fibers for protection and pupation. These insects feed on organic materials…

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Did you know that when certain insects appear in your home, it might be more than random chance? Among them, the leaf hopper is not just a master of disguise — it’s often seen as a subtle messenger from nature itself. With its delicate, leaf-like camouflage, this tiny creature reflects the intelligence of ecosystems andtheir…

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