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The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has officially declared the Christmas Island shrew (_Crocidura trichura_) extinct, marking a significant loss for the unique biodiversity of Christmas Island, Australia. Once prevalent across the island, this small mammal has not been sighted for 40 years, with its decline attributed to the introduction of invasive black rats and Asian wolf snakes, which have devastated local wildlife. The Christmas Island shrew is the third mammal species to vanish due to these invasive species, joining the bulldog and Maclear’s rats. This extinction highlights a troubling trend in Australia, which has lost 39 species since 1788, representing about 10% of its land mammals. Conservation experts stress the urgency of protecting remaining species to prevent further losses, while some remain hopeful that elusive populations of the shrew may still exist, waiting to defy extinction predictions. 
Published: Dec 29 2025, 9 pmeznews.inA recent study has revealed that the occupant of one of the most extravagant Paleolithic burials, known as "Il Principe," may have endured a horrific death after being mauled by a large predator, likely a bear. Discovered in 1942 in Italy's Arene Candide Cave and dated to approximately 27,900 to 27,300 years ago, the teenage boy's grave contained opulent items such as carved antlers and mammoth ivory pendants, initially suggesting high social status. However, the boy's skeletal injuries, including a smashed collarbone and severe skull fractures, indicate a violent encounter with an animal. Remarkably, signs of healing on the bones suggest he survived for two to three days post-attack, likely succumbing to internal injuries. Researchers propose that the lavish burial may have been a ritualistic response to this traumatic event rather than a reflection of the boy's social rank, as similar burials often involve individuals with unusual injuries.
Published: Dec 29 2025, 9 pmeznews.inIn a fascinating exploration of avian biology, researchers in Spain have revealed that the color of feathers can influence their weight, challenging the classic riddle of whether 1 kilogram of feathers or steel is heavier. The study, which examined 109 bird specimens across 19 species, found that melanin, the pigment responsible for darker feather colors, can constitute up to 60% of a feather's mass, while lighter pheomelanin contributes less. This means that darker birds, such as ravens, carry a heavier load, potentially impacting their energy expenditure during flight. The research suggests that lighter-colored migratory birds may have evolved to reduce weight for better flight efficiency. Interestingly, birds with white feathers might trade pigmentation for insulation, allowing them to maintain warmth in colder climates. The findings, published in *Biology Letters*, highlight the delicate balance between feather aesthetics and flight performance.
Published: Dec 30 2025, 4 pmeznews.inRecent sightings in New Zealand's Northland region have sparked excitement among marine biologists, as a lone dolphin spotted in the Bay of Islands may belong to the rare Hector’s dolphin (_Cephalorhynchus hectori_), one of the world's smallest marine dolphins. This species is divided into two subspecies: the South Island Hector’s dolphin and the critically endangered Māui dolphin, with the latter having only about 54 individuals left. Jochen Zaeschmar from the Far Out Ocean Research Collective observed the dolphin, which was later seen again in English Bay. The New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC) is urging locals to report sightings to assist in collecting DNA samples for identification. This sighting is particularly significant, as it marks only the second confirmed Hector’s dolphin sighting in Northland in a century, highlighting the importance of monitoring these endangered species for conservation efforts.
Published: Dec 30 2025, 3 ameznews.inA recent study from Germany has raised questions about the impact of listing gaming on resumes, suggesting it may hinder job prospects compared to traditional extracurricular activities like team sports. Despite the growing popularity of gaming, with 61% of Americans playing at least an hour weekly, employers may not recognize the skills developed through gaming, such as multitasking and problem-solving. The research involved 162 participants evaluating fictitious resumes for a customer service role, revealing that those who listed gaming were rated lower in hirability than those who included volleyball, regardless of proficiency levels. This finding highlights a persistent bias towards conventional activities that are perceived to foster teamwork and leadership. While gaming skills are increasingly relevant in a digital workforce, the study underscores the need for further exploration into how perceptions of gaming can evolve. The study is published in the Journal of Personnel Psychology.
Published: Dec 30 2025, 4 ameznews.inRussian physicist Alexander Berezin has proposed a troubling explanation for the Fermi Paradox, which questions why we have not yet encountered extraterrestrial civilizations despite the vastness of the universe. In his theory, dubbed the “First in, last out” solution, Berezin suggests that once a civilization achieves the capability for interstellar expansion, it may inadvertently destroy other civilizations, prioritizing its own growth over the existence of others. He likens this to a construction crew demolishing an anthill, emphasizing that advanced civilizations may not even notice less developed ones. Berezin warns that humanity could be the first to reach this stage of expansion and potentially the last to survive, driven by a singular focus on growth. He hopes to be proven wrong, suggesting that discovering alien life before humanity embarks on a destructive path could lead to a more benevolent future.
Published: Dec 26 2025, 7 pmeznews.inIn April 1815, Mount Tambora in Indonesia unleashed the largest volcanic eruption in recorded history, rated a 7 on the Volcanic Explosivity Scale. This catastrophic event ejected over 150 cubic kilometers of material, resulting in devastating ash plumes and pyroclastic flows that obliterated villages and caused tsunamis, leading to an estimated 60,000 to 70,000 fatalities. The eruption released 60 megatons of sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere, causing global temperatures to plummet by approximately 3°C (5.4°F). The following year, 1816, became infamous as "The Year Without Summer," marked by unusual cold weather, heavy June snow in New York, and relentless rain in Ireland. The climatic upheaval led to widespread crop failures, famine, and disease outbreaks, highlighting the profound and lasting impact of volcanic activity on global weather patterns and human societies.
Published: Dec 30 2025, 12 ameznews.inA TikTok video by Ambria Alice Walterfield, which went viral last week, has sparked discussions about a method known as "splinting" to aid bowel movements. In her original post, Walterfield humorously described a technique involving the insertion of a thumb into the vagina to help relieve constipation, a practice some users dubbed "The Adele." While many viewers expressed surprise, others revealed they had been using this method for years. Medical professionals explain that splinting can assist those with difficulty emptying their rectum, often due to conditions like rectocele or cystocele. However, experts caution that while this technique can be effective, it should not be a regular practice, and individuals experiencing persistent issues should consult a physician to rule out any underlying health concerns.
Published: Dec 26 2025, 6 pmeznews.inEating fresh pineapple can lead to an unexpected and painful side effect: a bloody mouth. This is due to bromelain, a powerful enzyme found in the fruit that breaks down proteins, including those in human tissue. While many enjoy pineapple for its refreshing taste and nutritional benefits, including high levels of vitamins C and B6, some individuals may experience tingling or even bleeding in the mouth after consumption. Bromelain is also studied for its potential in treating burns by aiding in the removal of damaged skin. Although pineapple is generally safe to eat, those sensitive to bromelain can reduce discomfort by choosing canned varieties or cooking the fruit, which deactivates the enzyme. For a risk-free experience, it’s advisable to cut the pineapple from the stem, where bromelain concentration is highest.
Published: Dec 29 2025, 10 pmeznews.inThe manumea, or tooth-billed pigeon (_Didunculus strigirostris_), has been spotted for the first time since 2020 in the forests near Uafato on Samoa's Upolu island, thanks to a collaboration between local experts and international conservationists. The sightings, made in October and November, were confirmed by multiple team members, although no photographic evidence was captured due to the bird's elusive nature. The manumea, Samoa's national bird, has faced severe population declines due to habitat loss and invasive species, making its survival precarious. Conservation efforts have gained momentum, particularly with funding from Colossal Biosciences, which aims to revive extinct species like the dodo while also supporting the conservation of related species. The recent sightings of the manumea, alongside other rediscoveries, highlight the potential for species recovery, even in a year marked by significant extinctions globally.
Published: Dec 29 2025, 7 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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