Saving the Hellbender
The giant salamander is a crown jewel of Appalachia, but many populations are in decline. Scientists are working to find out why, before it's too late.
Read more at The Scientist: Saving the Hellbender, a Giant Salamander Under Threat.
Eavesdropping Squirrels
Eastern gray squirrels listen in to birds’ conversations for cues about nearby predator risk, according to a new study from Oberlin College. Researchers found that hearing casual bird chatter after a predator call signals safety to squirrels.
Read more on my Animal Minds blog: Squirrels Eavesdrop on Bird Chatter as Sign of Safety.
Female Birds Sing, Too
Though understudied, female birdsong is relatively common, even in songbird species in north temperate regions. In a new study, researchers looked at why female eastern bluebirds sing -- to maintain and strengthen the bond with their mates.
Read my latest Animal Minds blog post: Why Do Female Birds Sing?
Goliath Frog Parenting
Researchers describe the first example of nest-building in an African amphibian, the Goliath frog, and suggest it's why they grow so gigantic.
Read my latest Animal Minds post: Giant Frogs are Attentive Parents.
Weird Ways Animal Moms Feed Their Babies
Any human mom can attest that keeping a baby fed and happy can be a Herculean task. That’s why some animal mothers have evolved some truly creative—and sometimes surprising—strategies. These include regurgitating nectar, sequestering toxins, and even self-sacrifice.
Read my latest for National Geographic's Weird & Wild news: Bats Regurgitate Nectar for Their Babies -- A New Discovery.