Science Alert
Catch up on the latest science news, from space and technology to life and environmental research- all the discoveries shaping our world today.
Updated: 2 hours 44 min ago
Deer Learn To Ignore Deterrents: Human shouts scare best; habituation soon blunts effect
Research indicates that loud human noises and bright lights were effective in driving deer and elk away from crops, while predator sounds and dog barks didn’t have the same effect. Over a period of six weeks, these animals became accustomed to the deterrents, especially those near human activity. Researchers recommend diversifying stimuli and introducing consequences to keep these animals from adapting.
In the 1850s, pigs brought to Santa Cruz Island became feral
Feral pigs were eradicated from Santa Cruz Island, facilitating a resurgence in fox populations. With bald eagles no longer in the area, golden eagles preyed on the island's foxes. In response, conservationists captured the golden eagles and reintroduced the native bald eagles. A captive breeding initiative safeguarded the remaining island foxes from predators, resulting in a successful revival of the island's native wildlife and ecosystem.
For decades, scientists thought North America had a cheetah; DNA links it to pumas 2.6M years ago
In a groundbreaking revelation, ancient DNA analysis has clarified that Miracinonyx trumani is more closely related to pumas than cheetahs. This extinct cat thrived in North America during the Pleistocene epoch and had the unique ability to fish in colder regions. While its structure suggested agility, evolutionary genetics indicated that convergence was at play, with low genetic variety likely contributing to its disappearance from the ecosystem.
Archaeologists found a 1,200-year-old shell island in Fiji, possibly formed from food waste
Archaeologists discovered a unique island in Fiji composed mostly of discarded shellfish remains. Radiocarbon dating suggests the island formed around 760 CE from human activity. Researchers believe people processed large amounts of shellfish at this location. This site may represent the first described midden island east of Papua New Guinea. Further surveys will investigate the island's connection to nearby settlements and past events.
Former NASA specialist claims he has found a way to overcome Earth's gravity in a 'major discovery'
A former engineer from NASA has made an exciting claim regarding propulsion technology. His company has engineered a device that generates thrust purely through electric fields, without expelling any mass. This groundbreaking technology has shown consistent improvements in force generation over several years. Upcoming space demonstrations are expected to exhibit the full potential of this cutting-edge innovation.
In 2019, scientists shook earthworms and found waves oscillating at half the driving frequency
Scientists observed earthworms developing body waves at half driving frequency. Their flexible, water-filled bodies and elastic skin supported these unusual oscillations. This phenomenon resembled waves found in vibrating liquid drops and phantom models. Researchers believe this could help probe biological processes like nerve impulse propagation. The findings suggest nonlinear wave excitation has potential beyond earthworm studies.
Scientists fitted GPS collars to 17 lions and 14 hyenas expecting hyenas to follow lions
A groundbreaking study suggests that it's the male lions that approach spotted hyenas, contrary to the belief that hyenas seek out lion remains for food. In fact, spotted hyenas are known to back away from lions, prioritizing their safety. This finding highlights the importance of spatial avoidance in hyena behavior, emphasizing their adaptive strategies to circumvent confrontations with such powerful hunters.
Is AI going to 'kill everyone' in ten years?
Hopefully, whatever version of doomsday the AI world is worried about waits until after Avengers: Doomsday, because after all the multiverse nonsense and speculation about how Robert Downey Jr is going to return to the MCU as Doctor Doom, one really wants to watch Kevin Feige explain that before artificial intelligence kills everyone.
