Wildlife

"Researchers have found several promising ways to thwart the fungus, which causes the deadly white-nose syndrome in bats."

"The Vaux's Swift is a tiny bird – some people call it “a cigar with wings.” But every fall these little birds make a big trip, from summer breeding grounds in the Pacific Northwest down to their winter home in Central and South America. Along the way, many of them roost as a big flock in chimneys up and down the west coast. And their murmurations in the air – and simultaneously dive together into chimneys – are so spectacular that they draw crowds."

"A tiny, vibrant world thrives along the rocky bottom of most streams. As sunlight filters through the water, mayfly nymphs, no larger than your fingernail, cling to algae-coated cobbles. Six spindly legs anchor them against the current, while feathery gills wave gently, drawing oxygen from the flowing water."

"Babesiosis is on the rise and is spread by the same ticks that cause Lyme. It can be serious, especially for people who are immunocompromised."

"An analysis published Thursday in the journal Science suggests farmers have increased their use of pesticides on crops in response to the population collapse of bats, potentially leading to the deaths of more than 1,000 human infants through intoxication from the chemicals."

"Frank Sinatra famously sang that if you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere. And that’s just what worries some scientists who have been studying a particular species of ant."

"Hundreds of California sea lions have taken over San Carlos Beach in Monterey, California, prompting local officials to close the area to people."

"Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’s administration wants to build hotels, golf courses, pickleball courts and other “amenities” at state parks prized for their pristine habitats — a plan that has sparked outrage and concern across the aisle."

"A U.S. judge at the urging of environmental groups has thrown out an assessment by a federal agency governing how endangered and threatened marine species should be protected from oil and gas drilling in the Gulf of Mexico."