Most bird species that sing learn the song from adult birds. Mistakes made in the learning process gives rise to differences in song patterns in geographically distinct populations – an amazing way to explain the presence of regional song dialects.
We are not the only ones with dialect Read More »
The flashing is a signal used to find mates. The sole purpose of light production in fireflies is sexual communication. Firefly flashes last about a few hundred milliseconds and the interval between flashes are closely regulated. It is this pattern of flashes which comes handy in species recognition for it is the first step of a successful mating. The flashing is also used to warn predators of the distasteful nature of some firefly species. Flashes can also be predatory where the prey is lured near only to be captured and eaten. There is also evidence of fireflies using their flashes to light their way while navigating.
Lights of the dark nights – the secret code of the fireflies Read More »
Almost all of us on this planet who have seen seasons change have experienced the fresh fragrance emanating from the ground during the first rains after a long dry summer and we have asked the same question at least once in our lives – Why does the ground smell so sweet after the first rain?
It took scientists several decades of observation and analysis to decode the mystery behind this characteristic earthy fragrance intimately associated with the first summer rains. But did you know that there is a word for this rainy fragrance? It’s called ‘Petrichor’.
Smell of first rain – the story of Petrichor Read More »