Little dog leaves Campo Grande, crosses ocean and travels 8,000 km to reunite with family in Europe

Cachorrinha sai de Campo Grande, cruza oceano e percorre 8 mil km para reencontrar família na Europa

A 10-year-old Yorkshire terrier named Ellie traveled over 8,000 kilometers from Campo Grande, Brazil, to reunite with her family in Lisbon, Portugal. The 20-hour journey required months of paperwork and careful preparation by pet transport specialist Ana Clara Rosa Balbé. Ellie spent a week adapting to her travel carrier through gradual training with food, toys, and extended stays inside. The small dog was able to fly in the cabin, alternating between her carrier and her caretaker's lap. Her family had moved to Europe a year earlier but couldn't initially bring their pets due to health regulations. Their commitment to reuniting with their elderly dog, despite the complexity and cost, moved those involved in the journey.

Thomas J. Walker studied the songs of crickets and katydids

Thomas J. Walker, who died in April 2026 at 94, devoted his career to understanding crickets and katydids through their songs. Working at the University of Florida for over forty years, he challenged traditional taxonomy by emphasizing the study of living insects rather than preserved specimens alone. Walker demonstrated that insect songs were not merely byproducts of anatomy but essential traits that distinguished species and structured behavior. A pioneer in open-access science, he helped digitize research journals and created the "Singing Insects of North America" website, making specialized knowledge available to both researchers and the public. His work bridged careful observation with generous sharing of knowledge.

Electric car prototype created by UFMG students wins international award in USA for lowest energy consumption

Protótipo de carro elétrico criado por estudantes da UFMG ganha prêmio internacional nos EUA por menor consumo de energia

Engineering students from Brazil's Federal University of Minas Gerais achieved a historic first for Latin America, winning the Shell Eco-marathon United States competition in Indianapolis. Their electric prototype traveled an impressive 469.7 kilometers per kilowatt-hour, beating the second-place team by 40 km/kWh. The 30-member team, called Milhagem UFMG and founded in 2005, brings together students from mechanical, electrical, physics, and automation programs. Their $3,000 prize will fund improvements to their combustion-powered urban vehicle. The victory reflects years of refinement and consistent success at Brazilian competitions, where the team has claimed multiple national titles in electric prototype efficiency.

Community-led ecotourism protects rebounding wild cattle in Thailand

The critically endangered banteng, a rare wild cattle species, is thriving in Thailand's Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary thanks to habitat protection and anti-poaching patrols. Over the past two decades, the population has doubled to at least 1,400 individuals—the largest in Southeast Asia. As herds expanded into surrounding farmland, local communities initially faced crop damage and conflict. In response, residents launched a community-based ecotourism initiative in 2021, offering banteng-watching tours and cultural activities. More than 320 people from 19 villages now participate, transforming the species from a source of conflict into a vital economic and cultural asset while fostering a shared commitment to conservation.

Landmark US Magnuson-Stevens fisheries law turns 50 amid budget cut concerns

The U.S. Magnuson-Stevens Act celebrates its 50th anniversary this month, marking half a century of ocean conservation success. Passed in 1976 during an era of environmental crisis, the law extended U.S. coastal jurisdiction and established science-based fishery management councils. At least 50 fish stocks have been rebuilt since 2000, including Atlantic sea scallops and Pacific bluefin tuna, while the fishing industry now generates over $300 billion annually and supports 2.1 million jobs. However, conservationists worry that proposed $1.6 billion budget cuts to NOAA and calls to reduce fishing regulations could threaten these hard-won gains, even as 18% of U.S. fish stocks remain overfished.

The postcard that made its way home to Dunedin after 116 years

A postcard sent in 1910 from adventurous traveler Dorothy Theomin to her young cousin has returned to Dunedin's Olveston House after 116 years. The card, featuring Māori wahine by the Whanganui River, was mailed during Dorothy's North Island travels and recently donated back by an Auckland collector. Olveston, Dorothy's family home and now a museum, remains remarkably intact with all original furnishings and artwork. The postcard offers rare insight into Dorothy's life—she rarely kept diaries but was known as an avid mountaineer who crossed Copland's Pass eleven times. Both families, the Theomins and Hallensteins, were prominent Dunedin philanthropists who believed in giving back to their community.

Ephemeral nature of fungi has this photographer hooked on forest life

A surge of public interest in fungi has inspired a multisensory exhibition at Victoria's WAMA gallery, exploring themes of life, death, and renewal in the fungal kingdom. Environmental photographer Alison Pouliot, whose striking images span entire walls, attributes the "fungal awakening" to growing resistance against industrial food systems and the visual appeal of these ephemeral organisms. The exhibition features diverse artistic interpretations—from digital forest floor projections to sound installations made from recordings of tree roots—inviting visitors to consider fungi's vital role in Earth's ecosystems. Curator Felicity Spear hopes the show encourages deeper reflection on humanity's environmental impact through understanding these fascinating, foundational organisms.

An Argentine plants a guitar-shaped forest in tribute to his deceased wife

Un Argentin plante une forêt en forme de guitare en hommage à sa femme morte

In the Argentine pampas, a guitar-shaped forest stretches across 25 hectares—a labor of love planted by Pedro Ureta in memory of his wife, Graciela Yraizoz, who died of an aneurysm in 1977 at age 25. Over five years, Ureta planted some 7,000 trees following a meticulous design: dark green cypress outline the guitar's body, eucalyptus trace the six strings, and other cypresses form the bridge and rosette. Nearly 50 years later, the mature trees reveal their full splendor from above, visible on Google Earth. Though Ureta, who feared flying, never saw his creation from the sky before his death in 2019, his monument to enduring love remains—a quiet testament to devotion rooted in the earth.

VIDEO: Meet the 'Doodle Artist,' teacher from rural Maranhão who transforms words into drawings

VÍDEO: Conheça o “Artista do Rabisco”, professor do interior do MA que transforma palavras em desenhos

Antônio Arnóbio Ribeiro Verde, a 47-year-old art teacher in rural Maranhão, Brazil, has captured hearts online by transforming random scribbles and words into detailed drawings. Known as the "Doodle Artist," he began drawing at age two, seeing images in cracked walls and sketching with tile fragments and charcoal. The practice started as a classroom activity in 2023 when a student challenged him to turn a scribble into art. His students now regularly suggest words for him to illustrate. Despite limited resources, Verde's parents encouraged his talent, and he dreams of studying art formally. His warm teaching style and remarkable skill have earned him recognition both online and in his community.

'Really good at a bad ponytail': Dads learning new hair skills

A hairdressing tutor in Napier, New Zealand, has launched workshops teaching fathers how to style their daughters' hair. Courtney Cook, inspired by her own father who did her hair growing up, created the classes to help dads master practical skills like braids and ponytails. The workshops, which quickly sold out, focus on basics like sectioning and hair care while teaching three different styles. Participants range from self-described experts at "bad ponytails" to those with ambitious goals of recreating any hairstyle from a picture. Cook emphasizes that the real value isn't perfection but the quality time spent together, noting that daughters remember these moments of connection rather than flawless technique.

A chimpanzee’s rhythmic drumming with floorboards hints at origins of instruments

Ayumu, a 26-year-old chimpanzee at Kyoto University, has been spontaneously creating makeshift drums by prying up floorboards and performing structured, rhythmic displays while vocalizing. Researchers recorded 89 performances over two years and found the drumming followed non-random patterns remarkably similar to chimpanzee long-distance vocal calls. Ayumu combined up to 14 distinct actions—drumming, dragging, throwing—into sequences that built from soft sounds to climactic gestures. The chimp appeared to laugh and display play faces during performances, suggesting the behavior was emotionally rewarding. These observations offer intriguing clues about how instrumental music might have evolved from vocal emotional expression, though scientists note the findings are limited to a single captive individual.

Vibrant Holi celebrations draw thousands nationwide

More than 7,000 people gathered in Auckland and thousands more across New Zealand to celebrate Holi, the Festival of Colours, marking spring's arrival with vibrant powders, music, and food. The festival's legends celebrate devotion and joy—one tells of Prahlad's faith saving him from fire, another of Krishna playfully colouring Radha's face, beginning the tradition of sharing hues. Communities from Hamilton to Tauranga, Wellington, and Christchurch's Rolleston hosted their own gatherings, with participants of all ages joining in. While one Christchurch event faced cancellation due to shipping delays, the celebrations offered New Zealanders of diverse backgrounds a chance to experience South Asian traditions and strengthen community bonds.

Gray whales, once rare in San Francisco Bay, dying there at alarming rates

Gray whales, which historically avoided San Francisco Bay during their epic 10,000-mile migration between Mexico and the Arctic, have been appearing there with surprising frequency since 2018. A new study reveals that at least 18% of these whales have died in the bay, with vessel strikes accounting for over 40% of confirmed deaths. Researchers believe Arctic warming may be disrupting the whales' traditional food sources, pushing them to forage in this busy shipping corridor. With the overall gray whale population at its lowest since 1970, conservationists are calling for federal action to protect the animals, while local programs educate boat operators and explore AI-powered whale detection systems.

How this tiny town welcomed a 70-piece orchestra

When the 70-piece Sydney Youth Orchestras traveled to Wilcannia, a remote town of 735 in rural New South Wales, they met the local children's choir for a cultural exchange through music. Fifteen-year-old violinist Demeil from Sydney connected with 14-year-old Barkindji girl Imogen, who had never seen an orchestra before. The Wilcannia children, who sing songs in their Aboriginal language to learn their culture, shared their connection to Country while discovering the magic of orchestral performance. After just a few days of rehearsals and exchanging handmade gifts, the young musicians performed together, bridging the city-country divide through their shared passion for music and creating lasting bonds across different worlds.

Video of recycling collector helping grandson read word on bus in Fortaleza goes viral

Vídeo de catador ajudando neto a ler palavra em ônibus em Fortaleza viraliza; assista

A touching moment in Fortaleza, Brazil captured hearts online when a passerby filmed a recycling collector helping his seven-year-old grandson sound out the word "Vitória" on the back of a bus. Carlos André, 44, patiently guided young Moisés letter by letter while working his collection route. The boy, who attends second grade, often accompanies his grandfather on weekends, asking endless questions about the world around him. Though the family supports itself through recycling work and faces economic challenges, Carlos and his wife Luciana emphasize education as the greatest gift they can give their children. The spontaneous roadside reading lesson resonated widely as a tender example of learning woven into everyday life.

Wetter winter and warmer summer hit marine life

Record winter rainfall in Devon and Cornwall is washing pollution, sediment, and nutrients into coastal waters, potentially threatening marine ecosystems and human health. Scientists at Plymouth Marine Laboratory are using satellites and drones to track freshwater plumes carrying farm runoff and sewage. The sediment blocks light needed by seagrass and seaweed, while excess nutrients fuel algal blooms—some toxic to marine life. Researchers have detected elevated E. coli levels after heavy rain. The long-term impact depends on whether spring brings more rain or dry, hot conditions. Despite concerns, the Environment Agency notes that bathing water quality has improved significantly over the past decade, with 98% of beaches meeting excellent standards.

VIDEO: At 94, grandfather goes viral with energy for climbing roofs, cooking and even calculating

VÍDEO: aos 94 anos, vovô viraliza com disposição para subir em telhado, cozinhar e até calcular

Domingos Sanches Ledesma, a 94-year-old retiree from Araraquara, Brazil, has captured hearts online after his granddaughter shared videos of his daily life. With over 3 million views, viewers have been inspired by his remarkable energy as he climbs roofs, tends his orange tree in the rain, cooks meals, and performs mental math without a calculator. Married for 67 years to his wife Melisa, Domingos maintains both physical vitality and mental sharpness. His daughter notes he's always ready to help with any task, while his granddaughter, a physiotherapist, says people find his routine inspirational—a reminder that determination and joy aren't bound by age.

At 81, elderly woman becomes oldest student at public university in Rio: 'For a person of my color, it was very difficult'

Aos 81 anos, idosa vira a aluna mais velha em universidade pública do RJ: 'Para uma pessoa da minha cor, era muita dificuldade'

At 81, Marlene Vicente has become the oldest student at a public university campus in Rio de Janeiro state, studying pedagogy through distance learning. Growing up in a low-income Black family, she faced financial barriers and was told university was only for the wealthy. After stopping her education as a young woman, she returned to school at 60, completed her high school equivalency, and passed university entrance exams. Now in her fifth semester, she navigates her studies with support from tutors and dreams of pursuing graduate work. Her professors describe her presence as a powerful reminder that learning has no age limit, while Marlene credits persistence as her greatest lesson.

Interstellar A&E: The Scottish doctor of space medicine

Dr. Christina Mackaill balances life as a Glasgow A&E physician with pioneering work in space medicine. The Edinburgh-born doctor developed the Mackaill-Russomano method, teaching astronauts how to perform CPR in the reduced gravity of the Moon and Mars. She's now collaborating with NASA to create guidelines for treating returning astronauts, whose bodies undergo significant changes in space—from fluid shifts and muscle loss to altered immune function and bone density. As missions venture deeper into space and commercial flights expand, Mackaill emphasizes the growing importance of understanding how microgravity affects human physiology, ensuring medical teams can safely care for space travelers without inadvertently causing harm.

Fossil discovered in RS reveals reptile species: new 'rhynchosaur' lived 230 million years ago

Fóssil descoberto no RS revela espécie de réptil: novo 'rincossauro' viveu há 230 milhões de anos

Paleontologists at Brazil's Federal University of Santa Maria have identified a new species of reptile that roamed the region 230 million years ago. Named Isodapedon varzealis, this parrot-beaked herbivore belongs to a group called rhynchosaurs and was discovered from a fossil skull unearthed in 2020. What makes this creature special is the symmetrical arrangement of its dental plates—unusual among its relatives, which typically had asymmetrical jaws. The discovery strengthens connections to similar species found in Scotland, evidence of ancient fauna spreading across the supercontinent Pangea. This marks the sixth rhynchosaur species found in Brazil's Triassic deposits, suggesting remarkable diversity as dinosaurs began to emerge.

Jaguar with cub enchants while crossing lake together in Goiás

Onça com filhote encantam ao atravessar juntos lago em Goiás

A fishing guide in Goiás captured a tender moment when a jaguar and her cub swam across a lake in the Corumbá River. Lucas Rafael, who has worked these waters for three years, watched from a distance as the mother led the way while her cub followed with difficulty through the water. The guide chose not to interfere, allowing the animals to complete their natural journey before disappearing into the forest. The pair were black jaguars, a melanistic variation of the spotted jaguar native to Brazil's Cerrado region. Despite numerous wildlife encounters throughout his life, Lucas says he had never witnessed such a scene.

A reforestation corridor in Madagascar offers a future for lemurs and locals

In eastern Madagascar, conservationists are rebuilding a living bridge between two protected areas that were separated in the 1960s when forests were cleared for agriculture. The reforestation corridor project aims to reconnect 150 hectares of fragmented habitat, home to a dozen lemur species and countless plants and animals found nowhere else. Led by the Mad Dog Initiative and partners, the effort has already planted over 100 native tree species across 70 hectares, with promising survival rates. Lemurs are already using the young corridor. The project combines scientific research with community investment in ecotourism, healthcare, and education, creating a model where forest restoration supports both wildlife and local people.

Waikato community rallies to gift new home to healthcare worker after house fire

After a Māori health worker lost her home in a 2021 fire, her Waikato community is coming together to provide her with a new one. Te Kōhao Health is gifting a repurposed house to Billie Gillet-Kati, who has spent decades supporting families as a navigator for Whānau Ora, including frontline work during the pandemic despite health vulnerabilities. The home will be relocated to her land in Waharoa, with local businesses donating materials and labor while volunteers help with carpentry, painting, and finishing touches. Leaders describe the effort as kaupapa Māori values in action—recognizing someone who has quietly given everything to serve others, and ensuring she can continue living on her ancestral land.

Elderly couple celebrates 65 years of marriage in hospital ICU in RS: 'Affection, respect and emotion'

Casal de idosos celebra 65 anos de casamento em UTI de hospital no RS: 'Carinho, respeito e emoção'

In a touching celebration at a Brazilian hospital, Erica and Arnoldo Gattermann renewed their vows in the ICU to mark 65 years of marriage. When 82-year-old Erica was hospitalized with pneumonia and heart failure, family members and hospital staff organized a symbolic ceremony so the couple wouldn't miss their platinum anniversary. A pastor officiated as the pair, ages 82 and 88, recommitted to each other surrounded by care and emotion. Hospital staff emphasized that honoring patients' life stories is part of compassionate care. The couple's daughter called the gesture beautiful and meaningful during a difficult time. Remarkably, Erica was moved out of intensive care the day after the celebration.

VIDEO: Premature capybara pup rescued and hospitalized at clinic in interior São Paulo

VÍDEO: filhote de capivara que nasceu prematuro é resgatado e internado em clínica no interior de SP

A premature capybara pup nicknamed "Renatinha" was rescued in March from a conservation area in Itu, São Paulo, and brought to a specialized veterinary clinic. Born too early, the female pup arrived without fully formed teeth, claws, or lungs, and showed neurological issues that required intensive care. Veterinarians provided bottle feeding and round-the-clock support during her critical early days. Now eating independently, Renatinha is gaining strength but will likely remain under human care for life, as capybaras are territorial and rarely accept newcomers into established groups. Her story highlights the delicate needs of premature wildlife and the dedicated care required for their survival.

George Schaller: The field biologist who helped redefine conservation

Miriam Horn's biography chronicles George B. Schaller, widely considered the twentieth century's most important field biologist. Rather than forcing introspection onto her reticent subject, Horn honors Schaller's outward focus—his patient, close observation of animals on their own terms. From mountain gorillas in the Belgian Congo to snow leopards in the Himalayas, Schaller's work across six continents reshaped how scientists study wildlife and approach conservation. His radical simplicity—living alongside animals without guns, waiting and watching—revealed complex social lives where others saw only danger. The biography traces how his childhood displacement fostered watchfulness that became scientific virtue, and how his research informed protected areas while gradually embracing local knowledge.

Kathrin Marchand: "The Body Is Not a Machine"

Kathrin Marchand: "Der Körper ist keine Maschine"

Kathrin Marchand's athletic journey took an unexpected turn when a stroke at age 30 ended her Olympic rowing career and left her with lasting challenges including concentration difficulties and limited vision. The former Olympian, who competed for Germany in 2012 and 2016, has learned to accept her body's new limitations while rediscovering her love for sport. Within months of her stroke, she returned to rowing as a para-athlete, quickly earning medals at international competitions and placing fourth at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. Now she's embracing another challenge: para cross-country skiing, demonstrating remarkable resilience in redefining what athletic achievement means to her.

Giant echidnas weighing 15kg roamed Victoria – and the evidence was hiding in plain sight

A finger-length fossil fragment discovered in a museum storage tray has revealed that giant echidnas once roamed Victoria. The specimen, excavated from Foul Air Cave in 1907 but only recently identified, belongs to Megalibgwilia owenii—a Pleistocene-era echidna weighing up to 15kg and measuring about a meter long. Collection manager Tim Ziegler recognized the distinctive palate and breathing chambers of an echidna beak, despite the fragment being mistaken for kangaroo bone for over a century. The robust skeleton suggests these ancient monotremes used powerful force to dig for prey or tear bark. This finding fills a 1,000km gap in the species' known distribution across Australia.

African scientists hail mushrooming global interest in conserving fungi

Madagascar's first homegrown mycologist, Anna Ralaiveloarisoa, is working to classify 200 newly identified fungal species despite significant challenges including limited infrastructure and a lack of local collaborators. She's part of a growing network of African scientists pioneering fungal research and conservation across the continent. Last November, mycologists from 27 countries gathered in Benin for the International Congress on Fungal Conservation, reflecting global momentum in a field that has evolved from scattered voices in the early 2000s into a dynamic movement. While bird conservation began in the 19th century, the first fungal conservation organization wasn't established until 2010. The movement continues to grow, with conservation frameworks increasingly adopting the phrase "fauna, flora, funga" to ensure fungi receive equal recognition.

'You did it dad': The ordinary people who took their case to the highest court

In 1994, Rodney Croome walked into a Hobart police station to confess to being gay—a crime in Tasmania punishable by up to 21 years in prison. Together with his partner Nick Toonen, Croome challenged the last remaining state law criminalizing consensual same-sex relationships. Their journey led them to Australia's High Court, where ordinary citizens have brought cases that reshaped the nation. From gay rights to native title and prisoner voting, the High Court has served as the country's final arbiter on matters of love, freedom, and democracy since 1903. Croome's case became one of several landmark judgments that helped define modern Australia, demonstrating how individual courage can transform law and society.

Ukulele club's 600 members may be strumming their way to better brain health

What began as five friends meeting in a Queensland park to practice ukulele has blossomed into a 600-member musical community. The Parkbench Ukulele Players gather weekly at a Sunshine Coast RSL club, strumming through rockabilly, country, and modern rock songs. Beyond the joy of making music together, members may be giving their brains a workout. A recent Monash University study tracking 10,000 people over age 70 found that playing an instrument was associated with a 35 percent reduction in dementia risk, while listening to music showed a 39 percent reduction. Researchers suggest music activates multiple brain regions simultaneously, reduces stress, and offers cumulative benefits. For 77-year-old founding member Lin Nolan, the weekly gatherings provide mental stimulation and meaningful connection.

Trail mix and water help 87yo woman survive near-freezing night in dense forest

An 87-year-old woman survived a cold night alone in dense Western Australian bushland after becoming disoriented during a walk near Nannup. Temperatures dropped to 6 degrees Celsius as rescuers searched through the night, with thick forest requiring chainsaws to clear paths. Poor mobile coverage initially hampered efforts, but the woman eventually guided rescuers to her location. Her experience and preparation proved vital—she carried extra water, warm clothing, and trail mix to sustain herself. She was treated for dehydration but otherwise unharmed. Police praised the collaborative effort of local officers, emergency services, and community volunteers in the successful rescue.

Do you taste words or hear colours? Here's the neuroscience behind it

Synaesthesia is a fascinating neurological trait affecting 1 to 4 percent of people, where one sense triggers another—such as tasting words or seeing colors when hearing music. Synaesthetes experience spontaneous, consistent sensory blends they can't control: someone might always see the letter "A" as red, for instance. Scientists propose two theories: synaesthetes may have extra neural connections that weren't pruned during development, or they might have typical brain structures with stronger, more active pathways. Far from being a disorder, synaesthesia is simply a different way of perceiving the world. Many people don't even realize they have it, as these vivid cross-sensory experiences feel entirely natural to them.

Defying conflict to track the world’s rarest chimpanzees

In Nigeria's Gashaka Gumti National Park, dedicated local researchers are reviving efforts to study the world's rarest chimpanzee subspecies after years of forced absence. When conflict drove international scientists away in 2018, a few field assistants like Maigari stayed behind, driven by deep ties to the land and the animals. A 2018 co-management agreement brought new security, with over 180 rangers now protecting the forest. Using helicopters and camera traps, researchers are surveying the vast park and discovering previously unknown chimpanzee groups. With only 3,500 to 9,000 Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzees remaining, Gashaka may harbor one of their most vital populations, offering renewed hope for conservation.

Artemis II astronaut records reunion with pet dog after Moon trip; WATCH

Astronauta da Artemis II grava reencontro com cão de estimação depois de viagem à Lua; VEJA

After returning from a ten-day mission aboard Artemis II, astronaut Christina Koch shared a heartwarming video of her reunion with her dog, Sadie. The footage shows Sadie's exuberant greeting—jumping, tail wagging, and unbridled excitement—as Koch enters their home. In her post, Koch reflected that she might have been the happier one in the reunion, noting how Sadie has taught her about emotional support. The moment resonates beyond typical pet reunions, highlighting the psychological demands astronauts face during space missions, where isolation and intense pressure make emotional grounding especially valuable.

Colombia’s main river redraws the map of little-known night monkeys

A childhood encounter with glowing red eyes in the Colombian forest sparked Sebastián Montilla's lifelong fascination with night monkeys—the Americas' only nocturnal primates. His recent genetic research suggests that Colombia's Magdalena River, rather than the Andean mountains, separates two nearly identical species of these elusive creatures. Night monkeys have evolved enormous eyes to navigate darkness and form rare monogamous pairs, yet they've remained largely unstudied due to the challenges of nocturnal fieldwork. Montilla's findings could reshape conservation strategies for Colombia's five night monkey species, which face threats from habitat loss and the pet trade. These cryptic species look identical across their range from Panama to Argentina, making genetic evidence crucial for understanding their diversity.

French Guiana: the awara, star of the seed season and Easter celebrations

Guyane : l'awara, vedette de la saison des graines et des fêtes de Pâques

In French Guiana, the awara fruit takes center stage during the "season of seeds" around Easter. This rich, sweet fruit with an unmistakable flavor forms the basis of a special traditional dish enjoyed during the holiday period. So valued is the awara that it has become the subject of university research exploring its numerous health benefits. The fruit represents an important element of Guyanese culinary culture, connecting seasonal rhythms with festive traditions. Its prominence during Easter celebrations highlights how food serves as a bridge between nature's cycles and community gatherings in this South American territory.

Backyard astronomer who helped to discover 100 distant planets awarded medal

From a backyard observatory in regional Victoria, Chris Stockdale has helped confirm up to 100 exoplanets by detecting tiny dips in starlight as distant planets pass in front of their stars. His childhood fascination with the Apollo program and comets evolved into a lifelong passion, leading him to collaborate with global science teams, including NASA-linked missions. Using a fully automated telescope system, Stockdale captures precise data that verifies planet candidates identified by space surveys—work that can take hours of painstaking analysis. The Astronomical Society of Australia recently honored his contributions with the 2026 Berenice and Arthur Page Medal, recognizing the vital role amateur astronomers play in modern space science.

Country diary 1976: A place where change has lain lightly

A 1976 diary entry from England's Lake District captures an April morning in St John's Vale, where daffodils shiver in cold air and sunlight illuminates bracken beneath Helvellyn's crags. The timeless landscape holds farms nestled beneath fells, curlews calling over sodden fields swollen with floodwater. Among ewes gathered for lambing, one independent sheep has delivered her lamb alone on a distant hillside shelf. A farm worker arrives with his tractor to bring the damp newborn and its mother back to safety, concerned the lamb might tumble into the stream. The scene reflects a place where traditional farming rhythms continue largely unchanged, human care meeting animal instinct in the fells.

Can AI replace a priest? Japan’s temples and shrines are testing the limits.

A Buddhist monk in Japan is experimenting with AI to manage temple schedules and communications, even as he questions whether technology can replace human presence in spiritual care. His temple has embraced innovation before—offering online meditation and tree burials—to survive amid declining membership. While the Vatican has issued formal guidance on AI, Japan's religious institutions show no unified response, reflecting how spirituality here is often woven into daily customs rather than strict doctrine. The monk demonstrates the tension by holding a visitor's hand: some moments of comfort and connection, he believes, require a human touch that machines may never replicate.

Nigerian artisans preserve handwoven fabric amid rising global demand

In Iseyin, a town in southwestern Nigeria, artisans continue the centuries-old tradition of handweaving aso-oke, a vibrant fabric integral to Yoruba culture. Despite surging global demand—amplified by Nigeria's diaspora and international fashion recognition—weavers deliberately resist mechanization, insisting that handcrafting preserves the fabric's authentic character. The craft has become an economic anchor, drawing young people, including university graduates and former nightclub singers, who learn the intricate process of threading wooden looms. Once made solely from cotton or silk, modern aso-oke often incorporates imported Chinese threads in diverse colors. The fabric now appears everywhere from traditional ceremonies to high-profile events, embodying both cultural heritage and contemporary style.

Volunteer clowns have brought humor to Belém hospitals for 20 years and help in patient care

Palhaços voluntários levam humor a hospitais de Belém há 20 anos e ajudam no cuidado de pacientes

For two decades, a volunteer group in Belém, Brazil has brought laughter to hospital patients through the art of clowning. Projeto Sorria brings together around 50 volunteers who visit public and private hospitals, using humor, music, and playful interactions to lift spirits. The volunteers undergo annual training in clown techniques and hospital humanization practices, learning how to engage sensitively with patients in different medical contexts. Healthcare professionals recognize the therapeutic value, noting that affecting a patient's mood directly impacts their well-being. The project reaches not just patients, but also their companions and medical staff, creating moments of joy in environments typically associated with illness and recovery.

Dog reunites with guardians at spay-neuter event after 4 months missing in SC: 'We had already lost hope'

Cão reencontra tutores em mutirão de castração após 4 meses desaparecido em SC: 'Já tinha perdido as esperanças'

A dog named Pipoca had been missing for four months when his guardians spotted him by chance at a spay-and-neuter event in São José, Brazil. The moment they called his name, he came running. During his time away, municipal workers had cared for him at the park, building him a shelter and naming him Pitoco. The dog, who had previously been abandoned and rescued, now goes by Pitoca—a blend of both names honoring his journey. While the workers felt bittersweet saying goodbye, they found joy in reuniting him with his family, who had nearly lost hope of ever seeing him again.

'It's a special thing to be on Planet Earth': Nasa's Artemis crew welcomed home

NASA's Artemis crew has returned to Earth following their lunar mission, marking a significant milestone in the agency's program to return humans to the Moon. The astronauts were greeted with celebration upon their homecoming, with crew members reflecting on the profound experience of viewing Earth from space. Their journey represents a step forward in NASA's broader goals of establishing a sustained presence on the Moon and eventually reaching Mars. The mission highlights both the technical achievement of modern spaceflight and the deeply human experience of space exploration.

Artemis II crew speak out at welcome home event: ‘Earth was this lifeboat hanging in the universe’

The four Artemis II astronauts received an emotional welcome home in Houston after completing humanity's first lunar journey in over 50 years. The crew traveled a record-breaking 252,756 miles from Earth during their nearly 10-day mission, surpassing Apollo 13's distance record and capturing unprecedented views of the moon's far side. Commander Reid Wiseman and his crewmates—Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canada's Jeremy Hansen—reflected on the profound experience of seeing Earth as a fragile "lifeboat hanging in the universe." Their successful mission marks a pivotal milestone for NASA's Artemis program, paving the way for future lunar landings planned for 2028.

Three jaguarundi kittens born at veterinary hospital in Uberaba; see the video

Três filhotes de gato-mourisco nascem no Hospital Veterinário de Uberaba; veja o vídeo

A female jaguarundi, an endangered wild cat species, gave birth to three healthy kittens at a veterinary hospital in Uberaba, Brazil, after being rescued from a roadside in early April. The mother was found injured near a highway, though examinations revealed no fractures. Veterinarians discovered she was in late-stage pregnancy during her evaluation. Now under careful monitoring, the feline family remains in isolation while the mother recovers. Experts emphasize the case highlights growing concerns about how roads and human activity affect Brazilian wildlife. Once stable, the cats will be transferred to a rehabilitation center for assessment before a possible return to their natural habitat.

VIDEO: 'Little cowgirl' fulfills dream of being picked up from school by pet bull in rural São Paulo

VÍDEO: 'Boiadeirinha' realiza sonho ao ser buscada na escola por touro de estimação no interior de SP

Eight-year-old Isabelly from Ibaté, Brazil, experienced a dream come true when her parents arranged for her pet bull, Tizil, to pick her up from school. The girl and the bull have shared an extraordinary bond since before she was born—her father bought Tizil as a calf just months before Isabelly's mother discovered she was pregnant. The family describes their connection as remarkable and almost unbelievable. Though Isabelly had long wished to bring her unusual pet to school, it seemed impossible until her father coordinated the surprise visit. Classmates and parents were amazed to see the gentle giant waiting at the school gates, though the family assures everyone that despite his size, Tizil is exceptionally docile and trustworthy.

Asha Bhosle: The sound of Bollywood dies aged 92

Asha Bhosle, the legendary Bollywood playback singer whose distinctive voice defined Indian cinema for eight decades, has died at 92 in Mumbai following a heart attack. With more than 12,000 songs to her name, Bhosle brought bold, dynamic energy to everything from romantic ballads to upbeat numbers, becoming a cultural icon whose music touched generations worldwide. Her groundbreaking partnership with composer RD Burman, whom she married, revolutionized Bollywood's soundscape. Tributes poured in from across India, with Prime Minister Modi praising her "extraordinary musical journey." From classics like "Dum Maro Dum" to international collaborations with artists like Boy George, Bhosle carved a unique path distinct from her sister Lata Mangeshkar, leaving an indelible mark on music history.

Knowledge as Critical Digital Infrastructure: A Call to Action for a Resilient Future

The Open Knowledge Foundation and Wikimedia Foundation are collaborating on an initiative to recognize knowledge systems as critical digital infrastructure — as essential as water or electricity. The partners argue that political crises, climate change, and the expansion of AI are creating urgent challenges: cultural assets are being lost without documentation, and underrepresented languages and regions risk becoming invisible in AI training datasets. A working session in Brasília brought together government and civil society representatives to explore how "open knowledge by default" policies could protect institutional memory, ensure equitable access, and give communities sovereign control over their cultural heritage in the digital age.

At Ueno Station, ‘Freedom’ restored

A postwar mural at Tokyo's Ueno Station has captured renewed attention after a restoration sign sparked millions of online views. Created in 1951 by artist Genichiro Inokuma, the nearly 27-meter painting titled "Freedom" has watched over travelers for more than seven decades. The work was commissioned to brighten the station's atmosphere during a difficult period when Ueno served as a hub for returning soldiers and war-displaced people. Installed above the Central Gate—known as the "Doorway to the North"—the mural represents a gesture of hope for a nation rebuilding itself. It remains one of the few Inokuma murals still in its original location.