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Updated: 33 min 24 sec ago

Costa Rica releases 13 white-lipped peccaries into a national park after an 18-year absence

4 hours 23 min ago
Thirteen white-lipped peccaries were reintroduced to Piedras Blancas National Park after 18 years of absence. This project aims to restore ecological balance by benefiting local ecosystems and communities. Surveys confirmed the animal's disappearance, emphasizing the need for its reintroduction through local knowledge. The initiative also seeks to enhance ecotourism and environmental education in the region. Osa Conservation collaborates with various stakeholders to support conservation and community development.

The world’s largest known juniper has a hollow trunk that hides its exact age

12/10/2026
California's Stanislaus National Forest hosts the Bennett Juniper, recognized as the largest Sierra juniper tree. Standing at 24 meters tall and with a trunk diameter of 389 centimeters, it is impressive. Despite attempts, researchers struggle to determine its exact age due to its hollow trunk. This tree has been protected by 'Save the Redwoods League' for future generations.

In 1997, Australia eradicated rabbits to save Gould’s petrels; by 2000, 800 pairs bred on the island

12/10/2026
After the successful elimination of rabbits from Cabbage Tree Island, conservationists observed a remarkable increase in the Gould’s petrel population. This pivotal action mitigated serious threats to their habitat and reproductive success, leading to over 800 breeding pairs by 2000, with annual offspring exceeding 400. To further bolster the species, a second breeding colony was initiated on Boondelbah Island, emphasizing the need for ongoing protective measures.

A study of 77 Bronze Age children in Serbia found sex-linked burial customs dating back 4,000 years

12/10/2026
The study of burial practices in Bronze Age Serbia indicates that children’s funerary treatment varied by biological sex, with research focused on two Maros culture cemeteries. Boys and girls were interred in contrasting ways, highlighting established gender roles. Interestingly, some burials challenged these customs, inviting reflection on societal standards. This work sheds light on the nuances of how ancient communities perceived and enacted gender distinctions in funerary rituals.

Just 15 ml of olive oil before carbs may lower blood sugar spikes, mouse study suggests

12/10/2026
A Frank Lloyd Wright-designed planetarium at Florida Southern College in Lakeland has reopened after more than 20 years of limited use. The historic facility, whose projection system stopped working in 2004, has been restored with modern projection and sound technology. It will now offer public astronomy shows, school visits and educational programmes four days a week.

A 2,300-year-old shipwreck off Croatia’s Vis island reveals rare pottery, personal belongings and wooden remains

12/10/2026
A significant shipwreck has been discovered off the Croatian island of Vis, containing artifacts from the Hellenistic period. Archaeologists recovered various objects, including pottery, wooden remains, and personal items from the merchant vessel. The findings date back approximately 2,300 years, shedding light on ancient maritime commerce. Unique discoveries include drinking vessels, a coin from ancient Pharos, and parts of the ship's wooden structure.

University of Glasgow develops £20 ultrasound device to produce fertiliser from air and water

12/10/2026
Researchers at the University of Glasgow have developed an affordable ultrasound device to produce nitrate for agriculture. This device uses sound waves, air, and water to create nitrate without industrial production reliance. While current experiments show potential, energy consumption remains high compared to the Haber-Bosch process. The team plans to refine the design over the next year for practical agricultural use.

Thousands of rare grasshoppers released in Norfolk after 86 years

12/10/2026
After a long absence, the large marsh grasshopper has been reintroduced to Norfolk's Broads region. The successful conservation effort involved raising grasshoppers and releasing them into restored wetland areas. Following 86 years of population decline, the grasshoppers have hatched for the first time since 1939. The project received significant funding and support from various conservation partners and volunteers.

Nasa-backed spacecraft to inspect dead space objects, test future repair and debris removal tech

11/10/2026
NASA has launched a washing-machine-sized spacecraft to inspect up to four inactive satellites and rocket bodies in low Earth orbit. The SSPICY mission, launched on October 1, will begin inspections in early 2027. Using autonomous navigation, sensors and electric propulsion, the spacecraft will test technologies that could eventually help repair satellites or remove orbital debris.

Wild horses and donkeys dig desert wells in Arizona, supplying water to 57 vertebrate species

11/10/2026
Researchers studied wild horses and donkeys in the Sonoran Desert, which dig wells that attract diverse wildlife. The wells serve as critical water sources for various vertebrate species during dry periods. Observations indicated that these wells significantly increase water accessibility and create favorable conditions for cottonwood seedlings. The study highlights the animals' role as ecosystem engineers in changing their environment.

A 100-kg green anaconda can disappear beneath Amazonian vegetation

11/10/2026
Green Anacondas in Peru's Amazon rainforest were challenging to locate due to their hidden behavior. Researchers recorded observations across various habitats, mostly in floodplain forests. The snakes were often concealed among logs, submerged vegetation, and other natural cover. Basking conditions were primarily found in rivers and vegetation mats of oxbow lakes. The findings highlight the difficulty in assessing the presence and population trends of these snakes.

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