The Incredible Phasmid Egg
Stick insects have eggs that look exactly like seeds. Scientists can't figure out why these masters of camouflage would lay eggs that resemble bird snacks.
The Odd History of the Adirondacks
The largest wilderness area east of the Mississippi was deemed "Forever Wild" in 1885. But it wasn't exactly created to preserve nature.
The Camouflage That Dazzled
During WWI, artist and British naval officer Norman Wilkinson came up with an idea so crazy it just may have worked: Dazzle Camouflage.
The Forgotten Master of the Ghost Story
Vernon Lee was a widely-read writer of 19th-century ghost stories, called the "cleverest woman in Europe." Her life story was pretty fascinating, too.
The Crucial Southern Blackberry
In the 19th century, blackberry picking was both hobby and money-making endeavor for many Americans. Increased regulation of land use changed all that.
What Makes This SCOTUS Nomination Unique?
Presidents have always chosen Supreme Court nominees who agree with their political beliefs. But they've gotten savvier about the selection process.
Do Dolphins and Orcas Really Kill Their Young?
Stunned marine biologists watched a young mother orca desperately trying to save her baby.
Flying Spiders, Disappearing Dogs, and Superman
Well-researched stories from the New York Times, Washington Post, and other great publications that bridge the gap between news and scholarship.
The Poet Who Wanted to Be Eaten by Vultures
One day in 1971, the hard-drinking Beat poet Lew Welch walked into the woods of Nevada County and disappeared, possibly angling to be eaten by vultures.
Entrepreneur Personality Test
A study of successful entrepreneurs finds a high level of emotional intelligence and sociability, along with a marked need to dominate.