Bird guano created wealth for ancient Peruvian community

The ancient Chincha kingdom of Peru prospered thanks to high maize yields, made possible by bird guano from nearby islands.

The gliding possum is a nocturnal acrobat of the forest

The gliding possum darts through the night, soaring up to 165 feet with its young in its pouch. This tiny acrobat rules the treetops.

For you, Valentine. Heart photos from nature

This Valentine’s Day, we find so much to love in the many heart shapes right here on Earth and all the way out in remote spots of the universe.

Great Backyard Bird Count begins February 13

Show your love for birds by joining the 2026 Great Backyard Bird Count. It's free and easy to participate in this 4-day global event. Find out how here.

These caterpillars hear through hair, scientists discover

Scientists discovered that caterpillars hear airborne sounds using tiny body hairs. This discovery can offer insights for advanced sound technology.

Rare fossils of mass extinction survivors found in China

Scientists in China discovered pristinely preserved soft-bodied fossils of marine creatures that survived a mass extinction event 513 million years ago.

How snowflakes get their distinct and various shapes

Snowflakes form in a variety of different shapes from hexagonal plates to exquisite symmetrically-branching crystals, depending on the temperature and humidity.

Amazing cloud streets video: See it here!

See a new video of cloud streets from off the coast of the southeastern U.S. and read more about the phenomenon here.

Expect high tides whenever we have a supermoon

The sun and moon, among other things, affect the height of the tides. Expect higher-than-usual tides for a few days following a supermoon.

Jacana birds: Walking on water, breaking the rules

Jacana birds glide effortlessly across wetlands, defying both physics and nature's common gender roles. Discover this amazing creature here.