Evolution & Behaviour
Fair or unfair? The infinite patience of domestic dogs
It is likely not surprising to anyone reading this that humans have a strong sense of fairness. We recognize and respond to inequities from a very young age, and we continue to strive for equity throughout our lives. Though many may consider this a uniquely... click to read more
New fossil giraffe helps unravel the evolution of this iconic family
Despite everyone thinking of a giraffe's long neck as its distinguishing feature its family members are defined by two characteristics unrelated to necks: they all have double-lobed canine teeth (like a boxing glove), and ossicones, a special type of bony outcroppings covered by hair on... click to read more
Shrunken heads: a curious strategy to survive winter
Phenotypic plasticity is a remarkable capacity of organisms to change their morphology, physiology, and behavior to adapt to their environment. This ability enables individuals to cope with changes in the environmental conditions within their lifespan. Organisms inhabiting seasonal environments undergo seasonal plastic changes to cope... click to read more
The snake with the skin of a rhino…that eats babies!
Legends say that the rhinoceros has skin that can withstand a gunshot. Despite the slight exaggeration, without a doubt the rhinoceros bears one of the toughest hides in the animal kingdom, stretching as thick as 5 cm and woven together specifically to repel attacks. What... click to read more
Ant medics: wound treatment in a predatory species
When we get injured we treat our wounds. Our skin is an important barrier against pathogens and if it breaks we have to keep it clean. If we are not able to do so ourselves, we go to a doctor to do it for us.... click to read more
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