Bird ingenuity: Flocks of sulfur-crested cockatoos in Sydney, Australia, have been observed mastering an unlikely skill: working outdoor drinking fountains for their own refreshment. Using their claws, they perch on the spring-loaded handle and push with their weight until a steady water flow begins. The task takes effort, balance, and coordination, and many tries end without success, but persistence often wins them a drink. Remarkably, groups of birds sometimes gather nearby, appearing to line up politely as each one waits for a chance. Researchers think the appeal could be the cleaner taste compared with streams, the reduced risk of predators, or simply the enjoyment of figuring out a challenge.
Plastic breakthrough: Scientists in Japan have engineered a new plastic that disappears when exposed to seawater, turning into compounds that can be safely absorbed by surrounding marine life. Built from a salt-linked polymer, the material is strong enough for packaging yet is unstable in salty environments, where it dissolves much faster than conventional plastics. Unlike the bottles and containers people use every day, this version avoids releasing toxins, microplastics, or harmful gases. It can also naturally break down in soil within weeks, thanks to natural sodium content. Interest from manufacturers already is steadily growing, as the invention offers a clear path toward reducing global plastic pollution.
