| Citing the Gipper in an Energy Debate Ronald Reagan's secretary of state weighs in to defend California's policy on energy and global warming. feeds.nytimes.com |
On Our Radar: Shrinking Caribou Herds As development impinges on their range, rapidly rising Arctic temperatures throw caribou out of sync with the environment in which they evolved. feeds.nytimes.com |
Mystery Bird: Indigo bunting, Passerina cyanea | GrrlScientist Mystery bird demystified! What species is this 'blue bird of happiness', and how does it make its feathers blue?An immature male indigo bunting, Passerina cyanea (formerly; Tanagra cyanea), photographed at Heritage Community Park, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA. Image: Audrey DeRose-Wilson, 2 October 2010 (look at this bird with binoculars).Nikon D80, 70-300mm, f/5.6, 1/400, iso: 160Question: This neotropical migrant's blue plumage is not based on pigments at all. Instead, it uses another strategy to create blue feathers. Can you tell me about that?Response: Birds do not have blue pigments so they do not have blue pigment-based plumage. Instead, they create blue feathers using a few physics tricks where their feather structure manipulates light waves.GrrlScientistguardian.co.uk © Guardian News & Media Limited 2010 | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More Feeds guardian.co.uk |
Snake numbers on the rise The Australian Veterinary Association is warning that snakes are out in force following heavy rain in the New England North West. abc.net.au |
Is Bear Grylls 'afraid' of crocodiles? SURVIVALISTS "nerves on edge" trekking through Northern territories 'croc infested' waters. news.com.au |