Scroll For More
Score (99)
Here Are Some Green New Years Resolutions To Bring Into 2022
75 percent of those with green resolutions for 2022 admitted that they ‘never’ normally stick to their resolutions, but they want to this year. Combating climate change is the most popular reason for adults making plans to live more sustainably next year. 41 percent hoping to have a positive impact on local wildlife.
Score (87)
How A Demolished Storefront Became The Heartbeat Of This Tiny Texas Town
For 80 years, The Hunt Store was more than just a place to buy groceries — it was the beating heart of Hunt, Texas. Locals came for coffee, campers came for memories, and musicians came to play. Now, after devastating floods swept through the region, it’s become something else entirely: a rallying point for a community in mourning, and a testament to resilience. At least 107 people were killed across six counties, including 27 girls and counselors at nearby Camp Mystic. The store itself was nearly destroyed. One limestone wall and its chimney remain intact. The rest — including the iconic music stage — is gone. But that didn’t stop owner Haley Lehrmann and her team. Just days after the flood, they fired up a generator and cooked 300 breakfast sandwiches for anyone in need. “We’re still here,” Lehrmann said. “All the locals who are still just exhausted at the end of the day are coming here for a break. It’s still the hub.” That’s not just talk. The store’s damaged sign now reads: “HUNT STRONG.” There was no warning before the waters came. Lehrmann's general manager, Courtney Garrison, who lived above the store with her daughter, escaped onto the roof in the middle of the night. The apartment — and everything inside — was lost. “I feel so bad saying we lost everything, but I’m so thankful we’re alive,” Garrison said. Despite the destruction, the sense of community hasn’t gone anywhere. Locals call The Hunt Store “the center of the universe.” Musicians like Dallas Moore, who played there just days before the flood, say it’s where “young’uns and older folks” all come together to dance, eat, and celebrate life. One of the store’s quirks is its “French Taco” — a burger patty wrapped in a flour tortilla, invented by a woman named Mrs. French who ran out of buns more than 50 years ago. It's still on the menu today. Now, the mission is clear: rebuild. Not just a building, but a space that means everything to the people of Hunt.
Score (92)
The Secret Life of Australia's Rarest Bird: How Conservationists Are Saving the Plains-wanderer
When thinking of endangered birds, your mind might jump to the flashy or unusual ones, like New Guinea’s birds of paradise or California’s condor. But one of the most unique and critically endangered birds is a small, quail-like species living in Australia’s inland grasslands: the plains-wanderer. This bird might not catch your eye immediately with its dappled brown feathers and secretive vibe. Yet, as ecologist Dan Nugent from Bush Heritage Australia explains, "What makes them special is they’re really evolutionary and taxonomically distinct from other birds." The plains-wanderer stands alone in its family, Pedionomidae. Its closest relatives are a distant memory, leaving this bird as a sole survivor with only distant ties to South American seedsnipes. Plains-wanderers inhabit the open grasslands across eastern Australia, including Victoria and New South Wales. In these lands, female plains-wanderers outshine males in size and color with their brick-red breasts and distinctive black collars. They call out to attract mates during breeding seasons that coincide with rainfall-induced grassland blooms. Here’s a twist: after females lay eggs—about four per clutch—the males step up to incubate them and care for the chicks. The population of plains-wanderers has dwindled drastically, now estimated between 250 and 1,000 individuals scattered across their range. According to Nugent, European colonization triggered their decline through habitat conversion and introducing feral predators like cats and foxes that prey on these ground-dwelling birds. In northern Victoria's grasslands, which are significant habitats for these birds, only 6 percent of native ecosystems remain intact. This is part of a broader global issue affecting grasslands everywhere. The introduction of invasive predators has further complicated matters for native mammals too; as Nugent notes, “They’re very vulnerable living on the ground.” Despite these challenges, conservationists see hope for the plains-wanderer. Nugent spent years studying them in northern Victoria to understand their habitat needs better. This area serves as an essential refuge for them during droughts but finding these elusive creatures isn't easy. They blend into their surroundings remarkably well during daylight hours due to their impressive camouflage abilities. At night though, researchers use thermal cameras mounted on vehicles to spot these birds by their body heat before approaching on foot for closer inspection. “At night they just kind of stand there,” says Nugent about finding plains-wanderers this way. Tracking studies have revealed intriguing insights into how they use different habitats throughout the day; preferring dense vegetation for nesting while venturing into open areas at times too—a behavior earning them the moniker 'Goldilocks bird' because they need varied vegetation structures. Interestingly enough cattle grazing can help maintain this ideal environment if managed properly—a point conservationists emphasize when working with local farmers: "Don’t flog your paddocks," advises Nugent; leave some grass around instead while rotating livestock regularly so diverse vegetation remains year-round. It’s not big. It’s not flashy. And you’ve probably never heard of it. But one of the most unique and endangered birds on Earth is quietly clinging to survival in the grasslands of eastern Australia: the plains-wanderer. Nicknamed the “Goldilocks bird” because it needs just the right kind of habitat—not too thick, not too bare—this small, ground-dwelling species is the only one left in its evolutionary family. Its closest relatives are plant-eating shorebirds in South America, but the plains-wanderer has no true peers. Despite their rarity, few people outside of Australian birdwatching circles know they exist. Their camouflage is so good that even researchers often miss them during the day. At night, scientists like Dan Nugent rely on thermal cameras to spot these elusive birds. Today, only 250 to 1,000 plains-wanderers remain, mostly due to habitat loss and invasive predators like cats and foxes. They thrive in native grasslands, but less than 6% of that habitat remains in key areas like northern Victoria. Yet there’s hope. Studies show that carefully managed grazing by sheep and cattle can mimic the conditions the birds need—just enough open space, and just enough cover. Researchers are working closely with farmers to protect these last remaining strongholds, and conservation groups like The Nature Conservancy are helping secure permanent protection for private lands that support them. The survival of the plains-wanderer now depends on these collaborations between scientists, farmers, and conservationists, all working to make sure this one-of-a-kind bird doesn’t vanish from the world.
Get even more good news on the free app!
Score (96)
Meet The Woman Behind NASA's Next Giant Leap: How She Is Prepping Astronauts For Artemis II
Aaisha Ali plays a key role in NASA's upcoming Artemis II mission, which will send astronauts around the Moon. As the Artemis ground control flight lead at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Ali oversees the groundwork that prepares these missions for success. Ali's path to this position wasn't straightforward. She studied biology at Texas A&M University in Galveston and initially worked as a marine biologist. Her interest in science communication eventually led her to work with NASA, where she sharpened her skills in public relations and strategic communications. This diverse experience has shaped how she approaches her current role. “Because I’ve had a multifaceted career path, it has given me a different outlook,” Ali said. “Diversity of mindsets helps us approach problems. Sometimes a different angle is exactly what we need.” Ali's childhood experiences also influenced her perspective. Visits to her grandmother in Trinidad exposed her to varied ways of living and thinking. These early experiences have contributed to her adaptability and problem-solving abilities at NASA. In her current role, Ali leads the team responsible for making sure everything is ready for Artemis II. This includes developing flight rules, finalizing operations plans and leading training sessions known as “network sims.” These simulations prepare the team to respond quickly during the mission. Communication is another critical aspect of Ali's job. “When we report to the flight director, we are the experts in our system,” she explained. “But we have to be clear and concise. You don’t get a lot of time on the flight loop to explain.” Ali is passionate about inspiring future generations who may one day explore beyond Earth. She often shares advice with her family members interested in space exploration. “Do what you love, and NASA will find a place for you,” she said. “NASA is a big place. If you love the law, we have lawyers. If you love art, science, or technology, there’s a place for you.” As preparations continue for Artemis III, which aims to land astronauts on the lunar surface, Ali says she remains focused on the tasks ahead. “There’s a lot of uphill left to climb,” she noted. “But we’re ready.”
Score (98)
Miracle Pup: Chihuahua Survives Two Weeks in Fire-Ravaged Building, Reunited with Owners
A small chihuahua puppy named Vilo has been safely reunited with her owners after surviving two weeks in a fire-damaged building in Perth, Scotland. The fire, which erupted on June 14, tragically claimed the life of one man and left an eight-year-old girl and a 27-year-old man injured. More than 50 families were displaced due to the devastation. Vilo's owners had feared the worst for their pet when flames engulfed their tenement block. However, hope flickered when neighbors reported seeing the tiny dog peering out from a window of the charred structure. With this information, rescuers swung into action using thermal imaging technology to pinpoint her location within the crumbling building. The rescue operation was delicate. Demolition workers set up traps with food and water to coax Vilo out of hiding. But ultimately, it was her owner's scent that did the trick. Rescuers strategically placed clothes belonging to her family outside the door, and by June 27, Vilo emerged from her refuge—an impromptu bed made inside a wardrobe where she had managed to escape both noise and chaos. Katie McCandless from Missing Pets Perth and Kinross played a crucial role in Vilo’s rescue effort. "She does not have a single mark on her and her paw pads are completely fine," McCandless said. "She smells a bit of smoke but has minimal smoke inhalation. She really is a miracle dog." The Ridaj family lived on the top floor of the tenement and were overjoyed at Vilo's safe return. Maros Ridaj expressed his relief simply: "We are very happy that the dog is safe and has been returned to us."
Score (97)
How Horses Are Unlocking New Paths to Healing Childhood Trauma
Horses are proving to be more than majestic creatures; they might just be the key to helping kids heal from tough experiences. A new study from the University of South Australia highlights how equine-assisted therapy could be a game-changer for children's mental health. As mental illness rates rise among young people, some social workers are turning to horses as part of their therapeutic toolkit. This approach involves qualified health practitioners working alongside skilled equine specialists to deliver on-ground therapy with horses. The study recorded insights from 10 social workers and mental health practitioners who use this method with children. Morgyn Stacy, leading the research, points out that traditional therapy settings can feel intimidating for kids. "But give them the space to be outside, to connect with a horse, and something powerful happens," she says. The outdoor environment encourages children to feel safe and open up emotionally. The findings show that horses are incredibly sensitive to human emotions and body language. They mirror and react to what a child is feeling, offering a non-judgmental space that helps build trust and emotional safety. One practitioner described this connection as “being seen through the eyes of a horse,” indicating how profound these interactions can be. It's not just about interacting with horses; being in nature also plays a big role. Activities like walking barefoot in sand or observing animal tracks help children become more mindful and connected. According to Stacy, "Children often gain confidence, improve communication skills, and build stronger emotional resilience.” Dr. Fatin Shabbar, a senior researcher involved in the study, notes that equine-assisted therapy is particularly beneficial for children who have experienced trauma, such as those in the child protection system. She shares that practitioners have witnessed emotional breakthroughs during sessions where other therapies had not succeeded. Despite its potential benefits, equine-assisted therapy faces challenges in accessibility and regulation. The cost of caring for horses and maintaining rural properties makes sessions expensive. Additionally, there’s a lack of regulation in this field. Dr. Shabbar explains that without clear guidelines, unqualified practitioners may offer services without proper training, posing risks to both children and animals. The researchers call for professional bodies to establish clearer guidance and ethical standards for using animals in therapy settings. Dr. Shabbar emphasizes the need for formal recognition: “This research shows that equine-assisted therapy can be a deeply healing experience.” However, achieving broader access requires proper funding and established ethical guidelines. With these findings published in the Journal of Social Work Practice, there's hope that more attention will lead to increased support for this unique form of therapy.
Score (98)
How This Teenager Became the Youngest Black Female Chess 'Master'
Jessica Hyatt is making waves in the chess community as the highest-rated African American female player ever. At just 19 years old, she has already reached a significant milestone by becoming the youngest African American woman to earn the National Master title. Her achievements are not only impressive on their own but also serve as an inspiration to young Black girls everywhere. Growing up in Brooklyn, New York City, Jessica discovered her passion for chess through Chess in the Schools, a nonprofit organization that introduces students from underserved communities to the game. Her skill level has consistently advanced, earning her over $40,000 in college scholarships. According to Duchess International Magazine, her success story highlights both her talent and dedication. As a teenager, Jessica was already surpassing older and more seasoned opponents. In 2019, she clinched the New York State Scholastic Championship title. By 2023, she had become the KCF All-Girls Nationals Champion and was selected five times for the USA National Youth Team. During that year’s World Youth Chess Championship, she secured a draw against Liya Kurmangaliyeva, despite being rated lower at 1818. Jessica's victories include defeating grandmasters like Michael Rohde in 2021 and prodigy Abhimanyu Mishra in 2022. These wins place her among a small group of African-American women who have achieved such feats. Last year, Jessica earned recognition as the top-ranked girl aged 18 in the U.S. Her prowess was on full display during a simultaneous exhibition at the Detroit Institute of Arts where she won every game. A couple of months later, she became the youngest African American woman to achieve the National Master title, following Shama Yisrael's achievement. However, Jessica’s ambitions extend beyond personal accolades; she wants to pave the way for other girls of color in chess. She aims to mentor them and show what can be accomplished when talent is given an opportunity to shine.
Score (98)
Meet the Lightning-Fast Robot Dog That Could Outrun Usain Bolt
A Chinese robotic dog named Black Panther 2.0 has set a new sprinting record, clocking a speed of 10.3 meters per second. This impressive feat puts it in the same league as top human sprinters. The event took place during a television show at the World Robot Competition organized by China Media Group. Black Panther 2.0, weighing 38 kilograms and standing 0.63 meters tall, managed to outpace Boston Dynamics' previous record holder, WildCat. On a treadmill, it reached its peak speed within just ten seconds. To give some context, Usain Bolt holds the human 100-meter world record with a time of 9.58 seconds, translating to an average speed of 10.44 meters per second. The robot's development was a collaborative effort between Zhejiang University's humanoid innovation institute and the Hangzhou-based startup Mirror Me. Unveiled in January this year, Black Panther boasts a stride frequency reaching up to five times per second, making it one of the fastest quadruped robots globally. In recent months, Black Panther has undergone significant upgrades to enhance its performance further. The team integrated its three separate carbon fiber lower legs into a unified structure, boosting its strength and durability. Although Black Panther now surpasses most humans in short sprints, it still falls behind nature's swiftest creatures like cheetahs and ostriches when it comes to top land speeds. The potential applications for such technology are promising. In disaster relief scenarios such as earthquakes, this agile and fast-moving robot could quickly traverse debris-strewn areas to assist in rescue operations or logistics tasks.
Score (97)
This Lost Tortoise Just Reappeared, Seven Years After it Went Missing
A tortoise with a distinctive burned shell has been reunited with its owner after disappearing seven years ago. The tortoise, affectionately called "lucky tortoise," was given back to her owner, an elderly woman in her 80s, thanks to the efforts of Mandy Christopher, the owner of Little Beasties pet shop in Ulverston, Cumbria. The reunion occurred after a social media campaign helped track down the tortoise's original family. The owner expressed sheer joy upon being reunited with her pet, which had been a precious Mother's Day gift from her late son. "She said it was the last thing she ever received from him [her son] so it is of huge sentimental value to her," Ms. Christopher shared on BBC Radio Cumbria. The Hermann's tortoise vanished while its owner was visiting a friend. During the visit, the tortoise was placed in the friend's garden for some fresh air but disappeared before they left. "She was absolutely heartbroken at the time and had no idea where she'd gone," Ms. Christopher recounted. Fast forward seven years, and young Logan, aged 12, stumbled upon the wandering terrapin about 15 kilometers away from where it initially went missing. An animal lover at heart, Logan brought the tortoise to Ms. Christopher after a few days when he couldn't locate its owner himself. Ms. Christopher took to Facebook to post photos of the found tortoise and soon received contact from someone who believed it might be theirs. Skeptical at first because so much time had passed, they recognized their long-lost pet by its unique shell markings—a flat spot and burn mark caused by an incident with a wood-burning stove years prior. "When she described that marking I knew right away," Ms. Christopher said. "That stopped me in my tracks; it matched exactly." While it's unclear where the lucky tortoise spent those seven years away from home, what matters most is that she's finally back where she belongs—bringing comfort and joy to her devoted owner once more.
Score (95)
New Brain Discovery Could Transform How We Treat Mental Exhaustion
Feeling mentally drained after a long day of work or study? You're not alone, and there's some interesting brain science behind it. Researchers are shedding light on how our brains react when we're feeling mentally exhausted. A new study funded by the National Institutes of Health and published in the Journal of Neuroscience explores this phenomenon. Led by Vikram Chib, Ph.D., associate professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, the research focused on understanding cognitive fatigue through functional MRI scans. The team discovered increased activity in two key areas of the brain: the right insula and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. These regions seem to communicate when we’re feeling tired and deciding whether to push through or take a break. Chib explains, "Our lab focuses on how [our minds] generate value for effort." He notes that while we understand physical exertion quite well, cognitive tasks like memory and recall are less understood despite being taxing. The study involved 28 healthy adults aged 21 to 29 who performed memory tasks under MRI scans. Participants viewed sequences of letters on a screen and recalled positions, with tasks becoming harder as they progressed. As expected, recalling letters further back required more mental effort. Participants self-rated their cognitive fatigue before and after each task, which allowed researchers to correlate these feelings with brain activity. They found that both the right insula and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex showed heightened activity during moments of reported fatigue. But what keeps us going even when we're tired? According to Chib’s research, financial incentives played a role in pushing participants to exert more effort. This aligns with previous findings that incentives also motivate physical effort. "The two areas of the brain may be working together to decide to avoid more cognitive effort unless there are more incentives offered," says Chib. This suggests that while we might feel exhausted, our brains might still have capacity left if properly motivated. This research holds promise for better understanding conditions like depression and PTSD, where mental fatigue is common. Identifying neural circuits involved in cognitive fatigue could lead to new treatments using medication or cognitive behavior therapy. Chib points out an important next step: examining how these findings apply beyond controlled lab settings. "It will be important to see how these results generalize to other cognitive effort and real-world tasks," he says.
Score (98)
Meet The Newly Discovered Frog Trio Found In A Hidden Corner Of The World
In the remote cloud-covered peaks of the Andes, researchers have found three new types of frogs. These secretive species were discovered between 2021 and 2024 in the Cordillera de Huancabamba region of northern Peru. The team traversed rugged forests and mountain trails with no roads to uncover these amphibians. The newly identified frogs—Pristimantis chinguelas, Pristimantis nunezcortezi, and Pristimantis yonke—were classified by a group led by Peruvian herpetologist Germán Chávez. He remarked on their significance, stating that they represent how much remains unknown about the Andes. Each frog has unique characteristics. P. chinguelas lives on cliff sides and features large tubercles on its body. Its high-pitched "peep" calls can be heard during humid nights. P. nunezcortezi thrives near a cool mountain stream within a regenerating forest and is distinguished by its large black blotches on axillae and groins. This frog was named to honor Elio Nuñez-Cortez, an ornithologist known for his conservation efforts in the area. P. yonke is the smallest of the group; it resides at altitudes approaching 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) in bromeliads. The name refers to “yonque,” a local sugarcane spirit enjoyed by residents to fend off cold temperatures. Karen Victoriano-Cigüeñas, a co-author of the study, emphasized that exploring this area offers more than just scientific discovery; it's an immersion into natural beauty and cultural heritage. Fellow researcher Ivan Wong noted that many ridges are isolated with extreme terrain and unpredictable weather conditions, making research challenging but rewarding due to their untapped potential. However, these amphibians face threats from habitat degradation due to fire damage and expanding agriculture. Currently listed as "data deficient" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), their future remains uncertain according to Chávez's team member Wilmar Aznaran. Despite these obstacles, Aznaran highlights that regions like Cordillera de Huancabamba hold rich biodiversity waiting for further exploration by scientists worldwide: an open invitation for continued study and conservation efforts in such precious ecosystems.