News Bin - February 13, 2020
Bringing you the latest news, information, and resources from around the web. In the February 13 edition, read more about the following:
- The Great Backyard Bird Count
- Oldest evidence of modern bees found in Argentina
- Documenting penguin decline in Antarctica
- New rules could bump emotional-support animals from planes
- Hummingbirds owe their shimmer to microscopic pancake-like structures
The Great Backyard Bird Count
Head outdoors and join the 2020 Great Backyard Bird Count February 14-17. Count birds anywhere in the world for at least 15 minutes on one or more days to help scientists gather data to track the health of bird populations. Participating is free, easy, and open to all birdwatchers from beginners to experts. Read more to learn how to participate in this global event.
Oldest evidence of modern bees found in Argentina
A new fossil find confirms that bees were alive and thriving in Patagonia 100 million years ago. Paleontologists discovered ancient nests with special architecture suggesting these homes belonged to sweat bees. This fossil find confirms that bees and some of the first flowering plants diversified in tandem around 110 to 120 million years ago.
Documenting penguin decline in Antarctica
Follow a photojournalist who accompanied a team of scientists on an expedition to Antarctica, where they used drones and manual techniques to count various populations of Chinstrap Penguins. Click here to view a series of photos capturing the journey and splendor of the coldest continent.
New rules could bump emotional-support animals from planes
Airlines lobbied the U.S. Department of Transportation to crack down on passengers who call their pets emotional-support animals in order to avoid pet transportation fees that can amount to more than $100 each way. The department is proposing a narrow definition of what qualifies as a service animal.
Hummingbirds owe their shimmer to microscopic pancake-like structures
Have you ever noticed the shimmering colors in a hummingbird’s feathers? New research shows extra-complex melanosomes in their feathers, creating the iridescent effect. Read more to learn about the hummingbird’s evolutionary history and how their melanosomes compare with other birds such as Mallards.