X-rays reveal kingfisher feather structure in unprecedented detail

Synchrotron radiation imaging revealed a porous, almost sponge-like nanostructure to create bright hues [...]

30 years ago, these 15 industries were science fiction

From streaming to cybersecurity to plant-based meat, an entire layer of the global economy has been built from scratch in the past 30 years — and it's still growin [...]

Rare gifted word-learner dogs like to share their toys

"It raises the possibility that social motivation plays a role in why some dogs end up learning object names." [...]

Here are my favorite things from Toy Fair 2026

Toy Fair 2026 just wrapped earlier this week and while I would have liked to spend even more time there, I have my own kids (and all their toys and trinkets) to look after. That said, there were a ton [...]

From chickens to humans, animals think "bouba" sounds round

There seems to be a deep-seated association between sounds and shapes. [...]

Is Expensive Bottled Water Actually Better for You?

Luxury water can contain different minerals and taste noticeably different. But a remote source, alkaline pH, and high price do not necessarily mean better hydration. [...]

Spending deal comes with a bonus: Blocking political control of grants

Congress pauses the OMB's attempt to rewrite how research is funded. [...]

"Million-year-old" fossil skulls from China are far older—and not Denisovans

The revised age may help make sense of 2-million-year-old stone tools elsewhere in China. [...]

The CDC Has a Leadership Crisis

A 2023 law championed by Republicans requires the CDC have a director confirmed by the Senate. For months, though, it's had only acting directors—and the White House won't say when that wi [...]