theheartysoul--2020-09-15--Possible signs of alien life discovered on Venus

Long has the question been asked as to whether or not humans are the only form of intelligent life in space .
In an exciting new discovery , scientists have recently found what could be possible signs of life on Venus .
This is what we know so far .
To be clear , no , aliens have not been spotted on our neighbor planet .
What scientists have found are high levels of phosphine in its atmosphere .
This could be a possible sign of life on Venus .
( 1 ) Phosphine is a rare and toxic gas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of rotten fish .
It is normally found in pond slime and penguin poop .
It can be made in some industrial processes , however , in nature , it is created by anaerobic organisms .
( 1 ) The quantity of the phosphine found on Venus has led researchers to believe that this could be a sign of life .
That amount of gas can ’ t be explained by any other known processes .
( 1 ) Life on Venus ?
How Hospitable is the Planet ?
Venus is not exactly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and acidic surface makes survival there extremely challenging .
Thirty-five miles up , however , is a much more livable climate .
This is where the phosphine is thought to have been found .
( 1 ) The clouds on Venus are so acidic that phosphine should quickly be destroyed .
The quantity that they have found indicates that something must be actively creating it .
( 1 ) AdvertisementThe scientists are quick to point out that this is not definitive proof that there is life on Venus , just a sign that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Either phosphine is produced by some sort of chemical or geological process that no-one knows about – or there could be a biological reason , ” explains Emily Drabek-Maunder , an astrophysicist and one of the authors of the paper .
“ Our team can ’ t explain the amount of phosphine that we ’ ve found , through our current understanding of the planet .
When we try to model what ’ s happening in the atmosphere – volcanic activity , sunlight , or even lightning – nothing recreates the amount @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seen.
” ( 1 ) Read : Hubble Just Made a Major Breakthrough in the Search for Alien Life Prior to this , Venus wasn ’ t really being looked at as a potential for supporting any life due to its environment .
The scientists were testing how possible it is to detect phosphine in atmospheres , using Venus as a baseline .
They weren ’ t actually expecting to find much there , let alone in the levels that they did .
( 1 ) AdvertisementThis discovery has launched an interest to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could possibly produce this gas .
With more time and research they will be able to determine whether or not this is a true sign of life .
A spacecraft will be sent to study Venus ’ atmosphere , and hopefully , they can launch a “ sample return ” mission to bring back a specimen from the atmosphere for further study .
( 1 ) Again , this does not mean there are aliens living on Venus like the ones we see in cartoons .
Life on Venus is most likely a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ liquid droplets that make up the clouds in Venus ’ atmosphere .
( 1 ) Lewis Dartnell , an astrobiologist from the University of Westminster , says that researchers will have to determine the processes that allow life to both thrive and reproduce .
( 1 ) If there is independent life on Venus that didn ’ t somehow originally come from Earth , then this could mean that there is also life elsewhere , and possibly much more robust and intelligent life at that .
One thing is certain , this is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ space exploration .
( 1 ) Keep Reading : What Might Happen If The Earth ’ s Magnetic Poles Flip

Long has the question been asked as to whether or not humans are the only form of intelligent life in space. In an exciting new discovery, scientists have recently found what could be possible signs of life on Venus. This is what we know so far.
Possible Alien Life on Venus
To be clear, no, aliens have not been spotted on our neighbor planet. What scientists have found are high levels of phosphine in its atmosphere. This could be a possible sign of life on Venus. (1)
Phosphine is a rare and toxic gas that, on Earth, and smells of rotten fish. It is normally found in pond slime and penguin poop. It can be made in some industrial processes, however, in nature, it is created by anaerobic organisms. (1)
The quantity of the phosphine found on Venus has led researchers to believe that this could be a sign of life. That amount of gas can’t be explained by any other known processes. (1)
Phosphine is to Venus as methane is to Mars? 20 parts-per-million of phosphine have been detected in the temperate clouds of Venus, and its source is not evident. Greaves et al.: https://t.co/aZhuAXkNdZ pic.twitter.com/a3sFW6qXoS — Nature Astronomy (@NatureAstronomy) September 14, 2020
Life on Venus? How Hospitable is the Planet?
Venus is not exactly a paradise vacation spot – its hot and acidic surface makes survival there extremely challenging. Thirty-five miles up, however, is a much more livable climate. This is where the phosphine is thought to have been found. (1)
The clouds on Venus are so acidic that phosphine should quickly be destroyed. The quantity that they have found indicates that something must be actively creating it. (1)
The scientists are quick to point out that this is not definitive proof that there is life on Venus, just a sign that there is potential. (1)
“Either phosphine is produced by some sort of chemical or geological process that no-one knows about – or there could be a biological reason,” explains Emily Drabek-Maunder, an astrophysicist and one of the authors of the paper. “Our team can’t explain the amount of phosphine that we’ve found, through our current understanding of the planet. When we try to model what’s happening in the atmosphere – volcanic activity, sunlight, or even lightning – nothing recreates the amount of phosphine gas that we’ve seen.” (1)
Read: Hubble Just Made a Major Breakthrough in the Search for Alien Life
An Accidental Discovery
Prior to this, Venus wasn’t really being looked at as a potential for supporting any life due to its environment. The scientists were testing how possible it is to detect phosphine in atmospheres, using Venus as a baseline. They weren’t actually expecting to find much there, let alone in the levels that they did. (1)
This discovery has launched an interest to further study the processes on Venus that could possibly produce this gas. With more time and research they will be able to determine whether or not this is a true sign of life. A spacecraft will be sent to study Venus’ atmosphere, and hopefully, they can launch a “sample return” mission to bring back a specimen from the atmosphere for further study. (1)
Not Actual Aliens
Again, this does not mean there are aliens living on Venus like the ones we see in cartoons. Life on Venus is most likely a single-cell bacteria-like organism that lives in the liquid droplets that make up the clouds in Venus’ atmosphere. (1)
Lewis Dartnell, an astrobiologist from the University of Westminster, says that researchers will have to determine the processes that allow life to both thrive and reproduce. (1)
“If we do confirm that there is in fact life there, the next thing we’re going to want to check is if we’re related,” says Professor Dartnell. “Does it use DNA, proteins that are the same as us – or is it fundamentally alien?” (1)
If there is independent life on Venus that didn’t somehow originally come from Earth, then this could mean that there is also life elsewhere, and possibly much more robust and intelligent life at that. One thing is certain, this is an exciting discovery in the world of space exploration. (1)
Keep Reading: What Might Happen If The Earth’s Magnetic Poles Flip
https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/venus-alien-life-signs-phosphine-nasa-today-b436565.html


theheartysoul--2020-09-15--Succulent Christmas Trees Are A Gorgeous And Sustainable Alternative To Traditional Firs

It doesn ’ t feel like Christmas without a tree , right ?
Unfortunately , Christmas trees aren ’ t always the best for the environment , and plastic and real both have their cons .
This year , consider getting creative when decking your halls with succulent Christmas trees .
These beautiful decorations can be either small centerpieces or larger trees .
They are easy to take care of , don ’ t require much decoration , and can be used over and over as long as you keep them alive .
Succulent Christmas trees are completely customizable , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the size , which succulents you want to use , and how much or how little you want to decorate it .
This project is much simpler than you think , so if you ’ re not much of a gardener or an arts-and-crafts person , don ’ t worry .
We ’ ve got you covered.Advertisement • A cone frame ( you can buy one or make one easily out of chicken wire ) • Mix of potted succulents ( think different sizes , shapes , and colors ) • A star @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of tree-topping ornament ) Read : Bring The Ocean Vibes Into Your Home With a Mermaid Tail Succulent • Pre-soak the moss .
You want it to be moist before you make your tree .
• If your cone isn ’ t pre-made , make your cone .
You will need pliers in order to bend the wire to keep the cone together .
• If you choose to use a liner , line the inside of the cone with the fabric , making sure the edges overlap .
• Stuff the cone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ squeeze out the extra water as you go .
• Stand your now full frame in your pot with the rest of the moss .
Plant larger succulents in the corners .
• Fill the rest of the pot with potting mix .
• Cut slits in the fabric and inert your succulents , filling in the hole with extra moss to keep the succulents secured .
Do the larger ones first , then fill in the gaps with smaller succulents and cuttings .
Fill until the tree is covered .
As you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ simple to do .
If you are unsure as to how to care for your succulent tree properly , inquire at your local florist for tips and tricks to keeping your tree alive and healthy .
Keep Reading : How to Propagate Succulents : Turning One Plant Into Hundreds of Babies

It doesn’t feel like Christmas without a tree, right? Unfortunately, Christmas trees aren’t always the best for the environment, and plastic and real both have their cons. This year, consider getting creative when decking your halls with succulent Christmas trees.
Succulent Christmas Trees
These beautiful decorations can be either small centerpieces or larger trees. They are easy to take care of, don’t require much decoration, and can be used over and over as long as you keep them alive.
Succulent Christmas trees are completely customizable, as well. You get to choose the size, which succulents you want to use, and how much or how little you want to decorate it.
How to Make DIY Succulent Christmas Trees
This project is much simpler than you think, so if you’re not much of a gardener or an arts-and-crafts person, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.
Materials:
Sphagnum moss
A cone frame (you can buy one or make one easily out of chicken wire)
Breathable fabric liner (optional)
Mix of potted succulents (think different sizes, shapes, and colors)
Shallow pot or bowl
Succulent potting mix
Scissors
A star for the top (or another type of tree-topping ornament)
Instructions:
Pre-soak the moss. You want it to be moist before you make your tree. If your cone isn’t pre-made, make your cone. You will need pliers in order to bend the wire to keep the cone together. If you choose to use a liner, line the inside of the cone with the fabric, making sure the edges overlap. Stuff the cone with the moss, making sure to squeeze out the extra water as you go. Stand your now full frame in your pot with the rest of the moss. Plant larger succulents in the corners. Fill the rest of the pot with potting mix. Cut slits in the fabric and inert your succulents, filling in the hole with extra moss to keep the succulents secured. Do the larger ones first, then fill in the gaps with smaller succulents and cuttings. Fill until the tree is covered. Top with your tree-topper.
As you can see, this really is quite simple to do. If you are unsure as to how to care for your succulent tree properly, inquire at your local florist for tips and tricks to keeping your tree alive and healthy.


theheartysoul--2020-09-15--A pod of killer ‘crazy’ killer whales  launched coordinated attacks on boats, terrifying the sailors

A pod of killer ‘crazy’ killer whales  launched coordinated attacks on boats, terrifying the sailors and baffling scientists

In an uncharacteristic pattern of behavior , there seems to be a pod of orcas attacking boats off the coast of Spain and Portugal .
The killer whale attacks are absolutely terrifying and appear as though they are orchestrated .
Scientists are stunned at the recent attacks by pods of orcas on boats off the coast of Spain and Portugal , in the Gibraltar Strait .
The attacks have occurred over the last two months and appear to be an orchestrated effort from the pod .
( 1 ) On July 28 , a pod of nine killer whales surrounded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boat without rest for an hour .
The attack caused the boat to spin 180 degrees in the water and the engine to shut down .
The boat had to be towed to the nearby town of Barbate .
( 1 ) The rudder was damaged and teeth marks were found on the bottom side of the boat .
( 1 ) Read : Fish recorded singing dawn chorus on reefs just like birds A few days prior to the July 28 attack , a man was sailing his 34-moody yacht alone when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also spun around a full 180 degrees and was lifted up out of the water several times .
( 1 ) AdvertisementThe man was not overly hurt , though he did nearly lose his fingers while attempting to reset the cables just when one of the whales rammed into the boat .
( 1 ) In a similar attack on another delivery boat , one of the sailor ’ s shoulders was nearly dislocated when a whale hit the boat so hard that it spun 120 degrees in the water .
( 1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strait in their 50-foot boat when they were attacked .
For about 20 minutes the orcas kept spinning their boat around , doing some serious damage to their rudder .
( 2 ) Read : This Man Was Only Filming Seagulls , but He Suddenly Captures an Incredible Once-In-A Lifetime Scene Orcas , much like dolphins , are highly social , curious , and playful animals .
It is not uncommon for them to follow along with boats and swim close to the rudder .
Sometimes as part of a game , they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the boat will drag them in the water , however they never bite hard enough to do any damage .
( 2 ) According to Rocio Espada , who works with the marine biology lab at the University of Seville , says that this aggression is not normal and could signify stress .
Orcas in the Gibraltar Strait are often in competition with the fishing boats for food .
The waters in the strait are busy and polluted , and the whales who live there are endangered because of it .
( 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ orcas come to the strait for bluefin tuna , which also happens to be a prized fish for humans .
Overfishing of this tuna between 2005 and 2010 has severely affected the orca population , with only approximately 30 adult whales left .
( 1 , 2 ) Since 1999 , two out of the five pods who come to the strait have learned to actually take the fish from the fishermen ’ s drop lines .
This is dangerous for the orcas and has led to serious injuries and even death of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are accidental , but some are certain to be violent retaliation by fishermen .
( 2 ) Advertisement Harassment like this has been seen for decades in the orca populations .
During the coronavirus lockdown , however , the waters of the strait were nearly silent while most everything was shut down .
For two months , the orcas lived in this noise-reduced environment , something none of them have ever experienced .
Some scientists have theorized that perhaps this pod is angry at the noise returning .
( 2 ) While there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about orcas , one thing scientists seem to agree on is that this pod , in particular , seems , well , rather pissed .
Whether it ’ s the years of harassment , loss of calves , and noise in their environment , more needs to be done to determine why they are acting this way and what we can do to make peace .
( 2 ) Keep Reading : Blue Whales Have ‘ Unprecedented ’ Bounce Back From Brink Of Extinction

In an uncharacteristic pattern of behavior, there seems to be a pod of orcas attacking boats off the coast of Spain and Portugal. The killer whale attacks are absolutely terrifying and appear as though they are orchestrated.
Killer Whale Attacks on Boats
Scientists are stunned at the recent attacks by pods of orcas on boats off the coast of Spain and Portugal, in the Gibraltar Strait. The attacks have occurred over the last two months and appear to be an orchestrated effort from the pod. (1)
On July 28, a pod of nine killer whales surrounded a 46-foot delivery boat, ramming the boat without rest for an hour. The attack caused the boat to spin 180 degrees in the water and the engine to shut down. The boat had to be towed to the nearby town of Barbate. (1)
“The noise was really scary,” Crew member Victoria Morris recalled. “They were ramming the keel, there was this horrible echo, I thought they could capsize the boat. And this deafening noise as they communicated, whistling to each other. It was so loud that we had to shout.” (1)
The rudder was damaged and teeth marks were found on the bottom side of the boat. (1)
Read: Fish recorded singing dawn chorus on reefs just like birds
Not a Solitary Incident
A few days prior to the July 28 attack, a man was sailing his 34-moody yacht alone when he was attacked. His boat was also spun around a full 180 degrees and was lifted up out of the water several times. (1)
“The boat lifted up half a foot and I was pushed by a second whale from behind,” he said. (1)
The man was not overly hurt, though he did nearly lose his fingers while attempting to reset the cables just when one of the whales rammed into the boat. (1)
In a similar attack on another delivery boat, one of the sailor’s shoulders was nearly dislocated when a whale hit the boat so hard that it spun 120 degrees in the water. (1)
Another couple was sailing through the strait in their 50-foot boat when they were attacked. For about 20 minutes the orcas kept spinning their boat around, doing some serious damage to their rudder. (2)
“I had this weird sensation,” they said, “like they were trying to lift the boat.” (2)
Read: This Man Was Only Filming Seagulls, but He Suddenly Captures an Incredible Once-In-A Lifetime Scene
Unusual Behavior
Orcas, much like dolphins, are highly social, curious, and playful animals. It is not uncommon for them to follow along with boats and swim close to the rudder. Sometimes as part of a game, they will even bite onto the rudder so the boat will drag them in the water, however they never bite hard enough to do any damage. (2)
According to Rocio Espada, who works with the marine biology lab at the University of Seville, says that this aggression is not normal and could signify stress. Orcas in the Gibraltar Strait are often in competition with the fishing boats for food. The waters in the strait are busy and polluted, and the whales who live there are endangered because of it. (2)
Despite all of this, the orcas come to the strait for bluefin tuna, which also happens to be a prized fish for humans. Overfishing of this tuna between 2005 and 2010 has severely affected the orca population, with only approximately 30 adult whales left. (1, 2)
Survival Instincts
Since 1999, two out of the five pods who come to the strait have learned to actually take the fish from the fishermen’s drop lines. This is dangerous for the orcas and has led to serious injuries and even death of some whales. Some of these injuries are accidental, but some are certain to be violent retaliation by fishermen. (2)
COVID Related?
Harassment like this has been seen for decades in the orca populations. During the coronavirus lockdown, however, the waters of the strait were nearly silent while most everything was shut down. For two months, the orcas lived in this noise-reduced environment, something none of them have ever experienced. Some scientists have theorized that perhaps this pod is angry at the noise returning. (2)
While there is still much for us to learn about orcas, one thing scientists seem to agree on is that this pod, in particular, seems, well, rather pissed. Whether it’s the years of harassment, loss of calves, and noise in their environment, more needs to be done to determine why they are acting this way and what we can do to make peace. (2)
Keep Reading: Blue Whales Have ‘Unprecedented’ Bounce Back From Brink Of Extinction


theheartysoul--2020-09-14--21 ‘Signs’ of an Abusive Parent We Can’t Keep Overlooking

The signs of abuse can often be hard to see , especially when the abuser is a parent .
Not only may people outside of the situation not see the signs , but it can be years before the child recognizes the abuse .
These are some of the signs that you or someone you know has an abusive parent .
We tend to think of abusive parents as purely physical , however emotional and mental abuse is just as common , if not more so , and have a negative impact on a child ’ s mental health long @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the signs that either yourself or someone you know is a victim of parental abuse .
( 1 ) 1 .
The use of basic necessities as leverage Using necessities as a way to control – whether by withholding or threatening to withhold them or by saying “ At least I give you “ x ” thing ” as a way to make the child feel bad or to justify the parent ’ s behavior .
( 1 ) Basic necessities include : This can also be the lack of physical abuse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t beat you !
” ) .
The basic things a child needs to live should not have to be earned , nor should they used as a threat or blackmail to coerce the child into doing what the parent wants .
( 1 ) This is a term for when a parent treats their child more like an adult friend and lies heavily on them for emotional support .
It is almost a role reversal , where the child is now taking care of the parent ’ s needs instead of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blurs lines for the child on healthy interpersonal boundaries , but it can also lead them to believe that anything bad that happens to their parent is the child ’ s fault .
( 1 ) Parents are supposed to love their children equally and for the unique qualities each of them has .
Favoring one over the other damages both children : One grows up with an inflated sense of self , the other believing that they are worthless and undeserving of love and attention .
( 1 ) AdvertisementSure , sometimes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another .
When a parent ’ s teases , shames , and humiliates their child incessantly , however , this becomes psychologically damaging .
( 1 ) Disguised as wanting to “ protect ” their child , not giving them any privacy shows a complete lack of trust and disregard for their right to their own space .
( 1 ) Lack of privacy can include : • Being denied items such as a bedroom door Children who are given no trust and no privacy grow up to be untrusting of others .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ trafficked me throughout my entire childhood .
It looked nothing like people think Though the parent never actually goes through with that threat , it is a fear tactic that has negative effects on the child .
It will also make them afraid to go to their parent if they have problems and can cause issues of fearing authority figures .
( 1 ) This is the idea that parental love must be earned rather than freely and equally given .
In this case , siblings are put against one another to compete @ @ @ @ @ @ @ each one is led to believe that the other is loved more than they are .
( 1 ) Using religion to shame a child does double damage , because not only is the parent disappointed in you , but now so is God ( or the religion ’ s version of God ) , who is also often seen as a religious father-figure .
( 1 ) This is not what a parent does , but more what they don ’ t do .
Even if they are physically present , they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they even completely ignore their children .
Being a good parent is more than just providing a child with the basic necessities of life .
It is also being an active and positive participant in their lives .
( 1 ) Advertisement Only showing your child love and affection when they do something good and denying them of it when they are “ bad ” teaches the child that love must be earned .
It enforces the idea that if they do something wrong , they are undeserving of love .
( 1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leverage against the other parent Marital problems should always be dealt with between the parents and not in front of their children .
More importantly , children should not be used as a means of “ getting back ” at the other parent .
( 1 ) This can look like : Children should not be pushed to choose between their parents or used as a prize to be won during a divorce .
( 1 ) No matter how smart , talented , or hard-working a child is , they will never @ @ @ @ @ @ @ less or being a “ helicopter parent ” causes children to become highly self-critical , destroys their self-confidence , and causes unnecessary stress and anxiety .
( 1 ) Being constantly made to feel guilty by parents or other adult authority figures stunts a child ’ s ability to learn what healthy boundaries are and how to assert them .
It is unfair , exploitative , and an abuse of the parent-child power dynamic .
( 1 ) This can cause ( 1 ) : • Constant fear of getting in trouble This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ victim and blames the child for everything that goes wrong .
In these scenarios , the parent is never wrong and the child always is .
This teaches the child to never take ownership when they have done something wrong and can lead to them repeating this behavior as they grow up .
( 1 ) 15 .
Always speaking for the child Children should be taught to speak up for themselves and also made to feel safe to express their own needs , fears , and desires .
A parent who constantly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are speaking to another adult not only takes that away , but it can also be a sign that there are other types of abuse going on and the parent is afraid of being exposed .
( 1 ) This can also lead to consent being given by a parent on behalf of a child when in reality that child is uncomfortable and does not want to do what is being asked of them .
They are essentially being taught that they don ’ t have the right to say no and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked of them , no matter what .
( 1 ) Constant verbal abuse , ridicule , and yelling at a child makes them more likely to develop personality disorders as they grow older .
( 2 ) Read : Financial Elder Abuse : How Greedy Children are Cashing in on Dementia Telling a child to stop crying or that they are being too sensitive teaches them that their feelings aren ’ t valid , they overreact about everything , and that they should keep negative emotions to themselves instead of talking about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 ) This goes along with denying privacy : It is not a parent ’ s “ right ” to deny a child of the boundaries they wish to set for themselves .
This could be things like keeping their door closed while changing , sleeping , etc , or being allowed to have private conversations .
( 1 ) This often comes in the form of “ back in my day , we had it so much worse… ” .
This is especially dangerous when it is used to justify parental abuse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are lucky that they aren ’ t punishing them as harshly as they were by their own parents .
( 1 ) Stealing both items and money from their child because they are the parent and have a “ right ” to it is wrong , especially if that is money that the child earned .
This teaches the kids that they “ owe ” their parents for things like food , clothes , and a place to sleep and that they don ’ t have the right to protect any of their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Forcing a child to be who the parent wants Most parents want the best for their children and want to see them succeed .
This becomes abusive when that definition of success and what ’ s best for the child is defined only by the parent with no input for their kid .
( 1 ) This can look like ( 1 ) : • Being forced to play the sports/do the activities that the parent did or likes • Being forced to go to the same school as the parent or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to withdraw financial support otherwise ) • Pushing/forcing the child into a career or life based on what the parent wants without considering the child ’ s likes , dislikes , and dreams for their life A parent should be proud of their child for following their passions and doing what makes the child happy , not only if they follow a path that the parent deems “ respectable ” or praise-worthy .
( 1 ) The signs of a mentally and emotionally abusive parent can be hard to see , especially for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anything different .
If you have been the victim of an abusive parent , know that it is never too late to get professional help to help you heal from the psychological damage their actions may have taken .
Keep Reading : This Viral Soccer Game Photo Captures Co-Parenting at Its Best

The signs of abuse can often be hard to see, especially when the abuser is a parent. Not only may people outside of the situation not see the signs, but it can be years before the child recognizes the abuse. These are some of the signs that you or someone you know has an abusive parent.
21 Signs of an Abusive Parent
We tend to think of abusive parents as purely physical, however emotional and mental abuse is just as common, if not more so, and have a negative impact on a child’s mental health long into adulthood. These are just some of the signs that either yourself or someone you know is a victim of parental abuse. (1)
1. The use of basic necessities as leverage
Using necessities as a way to control – whether by withholding or threatening to withhold them or by saying “At least I give you “x” thing” as a way to make the child feel bad or to justify the parent’s behavior. (1) Basic necessities include:
Food
Water
Shelter
Clothes
Hygiene products
This can also be the lack of physical abuse (“At least I don’t beat you!”). The basic things a child needs to live should not have to be earned, nor should they used as a threat or blackmail to coerce the child into doing what the parent wants. (1)
2. Parentification
This is a term for when a parent treats their child more like an adult friend and lies heavily on them for emotional support. It is almost a role reversal, where the child is now taking care of the parent’s needs instead of the other way around. This not only blurs lines for the child on healthy interpersonal boundaries, but it can also lead them to believe that anything bad that happens to their parent is the child’s fault. (1)
3. Child Favoring
Parents are supposed to love their children equally and for the unique qualities each of them has. Favoring one over the other damages both children: One grows up with an inflated sense of self, the other believing that they are worthless and undeserving of love and attention. (1)
4. Teasing and Humiliation
Sure, sometimes as family members we light-heartedly tease one another. When a parent’s teases, shames, and humiliates their child incessantly, however, this becomes psychologically damaging. (1)
5. Denying Privacy
Disguised as wanting to “protect” their child, not giving them any privacy shows a complete lack of trust and disregard for their right to their own space. (1) Lack of privacy can include:
Room raids
Phone raids
Being denied items such as a bedroom door
Children who are given no trust and no privacy grow up to be untrusting of others. (1)
Read: My father trafficked me throughout my entire childhood. It looked nothing like people think
6. Threatening Physical Violence
Though the parent never actually goes through with that threat, it is a fear tactic that has negative effects on the child. It will also make them afraid to go to their parent if they have problems and can cause issues of fearing authority figures. (1)
7. Forced Competition Between Siblings
This is the idea that parental love must be earned rather than freely and equally given. In this case, siblings are put against one another to compete for their parents’ love, and each one is led to believe that the other is loved more than they are. (1)
8. Religious Shame
Using religion to shame a child does double damage, because not only is the parent disappointed in you, but now so is God (or the religion’s version of God), who is also often seen as a religious father-figure. (1)
9. Emotional Neglect
This is not what a parent does, but more what they don’t do. Even if they are physically present, they are mentally or emotionally absent, perhaps they even completely ignore their children. Being a good parent is more than just providing a child with the basic necessities of life. It is also being an active and positive participant in their lives. (1)
10. Conditional Love
Only showing your child love and affection when they do something good and denying them of it when they are “bad” teaches the child that love must be earned. It enforces the idea that if they do something wrong, they are undeserving of love. (1)
11. Using a child as leverage against the other parent
Marital problems should always be dealt with between the parents and not in front of their children. More importantly, children should not be used as a means of “getting back” at the other parent. (1) This can look like:
Tell your mom/dad this…
Your mom is this…
Your dad is that…
Children should not be pushed to choose between their parents or used as a prize to be won during a divorce. (1)
12. Expecting Perfection
No matter how smart, talented, or hard-working a child is, they will never be perfect. Refusing to accept anything less or being a “helicopter parent” causes children to become highly self-critical, destroys their self-confidence, and causes unnecessary stress and anxiety. (1)
13. Guilt-tripping
Being constantly made to feel guilty by parents or other adult authority figures stunts a child’s ability to learn what healthy boundaries are and how to assert them. It is unfair, exploitative, and an abuse of the parent-child power dynamic. (1) This can cause (1):
Difficulty with self-expression
Low self-esteem and confidence
Anxiety and depression
Constant fear of getting in trouble
14. Blaming
This is when a parent always plays the victim and blames the child for everything that goes wrong. In these scenarios, the parent is never wrong and the child always is. This teaches the child to never take ownership when they have done something wrong and can lead to them repeating this behavior as they grow up. (1)
15. Always speaking for the child
Children should be taught to speak up for themselves and also made to feel safe to express their own needs, fears, and desires. A parent who constantly interrupts and speaks for the child when they are speaking to another adult not only takes that away, but it can also be a sign that there are other types of abuse going on and the parent is afraid of being exposed. (1)
This can also lead to consent being given by a parent on behalf of a child when in reality that child is uncomfortable and does not want to do what is being asked of them. They are essentially being taught that they don’t have the right to say no and that they must always do what is asked of them, no matter what. (1)
16. Verbal Abuse as Discipline
Constant verbal abuse, ridicule, and yelling at a child makes them more likely to develop personality disorders as they grow older. (2)
Read: Financial Elder Abuse: How Greedy Children are Cashing in on Dementia
17. Emotion-Shaming
Telling a child to stop crying or that they are being too sensitive teaches them that their feelings aren’t valid, they overreact about everything, and that they should keep negative emotions to themselves instead of talking about them with someone they trust. (1)
18. Violating Age-Appropriate Boundaries
This goes along with denying privacy: It is not a parent’s “right” to deny a child of the boundaries they wish to set for themselves. This could be things like keeping their door closed while changing, sleeping, etc, or being allowed to have private conversations. (1)
19. Invalidating a Child’s Struggles
This often comes in the form of “back in my day, we had it so much worse…”. This is especially dangerous when it is used to justify parental abuse, such as telling a child they are lucky that they aren’t punishing them as harshly as they were by their own parents. (1)
20. Stealing from the Child
Stealing both items and money from their child because they are the parent and have a “right” to it is wrong, especially if that is money that the child earned. This teaches the kids that they “owe” their parents for things like food, clothes, and a place to sleep and that they don’t have the right to protect any of their own belongings. (1)
21. Forcing a child to be who the parent wants
Most parents want the best for their children and want to see them succeed. This becomes abusive when that definition of success and what’s best for the child is defined only by the parent with no input for their kid. (1) This can look like (1):
Being forced to play the sports/do the activities that the parent did or likes
Being forced to go to the same school as the parent or take the same program (and threatening to withdraw financial support otherwise)
Pushing/forcing the child into a career or life based on what the parent wants without considering the child’s likes, dislikes, and dreams for their life
A parent should be proud of their child for following their passions and doing what makes the child happy, not only if they follow a path that the parent deems “respectable” or praise-worthy. (1)
The signs of a mentally and emotionally abusive parent can be hard to see, especially for the victim who grew up not knowing anything different. If you have been the victim of an abusive parent, know that it is never too late to get professional help to help you heal from the psychological damage their actions may have taken.
Keep Reading: This Viral Soccer Game Photo Captures Co-Parenting at Its Best


theheartysoul--2020-09-17--Photo of children using Taco Bell’s Wi-Fi to do their schoolwork goes viral

When the COVID-19 pandemic began , schools across the country close their doors and students had to finish their school year online .
Over the summer , the situation did not improve .
As kids return to school this fall , they are yet again having to use online distance learning to “ go to school ” .
While this may work for children who have access to a computer and a strong wifi connection , there are thousands who are not so fortunate .
According to an analysis from July 2020 , 16.9 million children in the United States @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at home .
7.3 million children do not have a desktop , laptop , or tablet [ 1 ] .
For these children , attending classes online is nearly impossible .
This creates what is known as the “ digital divide ” .
Students from wealthier families have the resources to keep up with their studies , while the others are at risk of falling behind .
This divide was exemplified a couple of weeks ago , when a photo of two young girls sitting outside a Taco Bell went viral .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ City , California , sitting on the pavement outside a Taco Bell doing their schoolwork .
They were using the restaurant ’ s wifi , because they did not have a strong enough connection at home .
AdvertisementThe photo , which highlighted the disadvantages many low-income families face with online learning , quickly made its rounds on the internet .
California Senate President Kevin de Leon posted the photo on Twitter with the following caption : Amy Ish , president of the Salinas City Elementary School District ’ s board of education commented @ @ @ @ @ @ @ divide is “ very real ” .
She notes that delays in receiving needed technology are a concern across the entire state .
Read : Educators Believe ‘ Parents Should Be Panicked ’ About Schools Opening Back Up In The Fall This digital divide is making headlines now , but the reality is that it existed long before the COVID-19 pandemic began .
This divide disproportionately affects students of color , low-income students , and families living in rural areas .
One in three Black , Latino , and American Indian/Alaska Native families @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
One in three families who earn less than fifty thousand dollars per year are also without reliable internet .
Two in five rural families face the same issue [ 1 ] .
So far , the job of providing students with the necessary tools and internet access has fallen on the school districts .
Schools are trying to give students and families access to internet hotspots , tablets , and laptops to use at home .
Experts , however , are arguing that this is only a short-term solution to a much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Atlantic , Olga Khazan made the following statement : She added that the United States government has not regarded fast internet as something everyone should have , like water or phone service .
The consequences of this have been a problem for years , but the coronavirus has highlighted them in a stark way.Advertisement Read : Dr. Sanjay Gupta : Why I am not sending my kids back to school Upon seeing the photo of the two girls , a local woman named Jackie Lopez tracked down their mother , wanting to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sharing a bedroom with their mom and one other sister , and did not even have a space for a proper desk .
The girls ’ mother , Juana , is a migrant worker .
At the time of the photo , she was facing eviction from her rented room .
Lopez started a GoFundMe page to help , which has now raised over 130 thousand dollars for the family .
They are now working with an accountant to help them manage their funds .
This is a beautiful story of altruism and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that there are thousands of other children across the country facing similar situations .
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues , there is no way of knowing when students will be able to return to school , and many of them are at risk of falling behind .
The authors of the July analysis concluded their report with the following statement : Keep Reading : The future of school may be outdoors , even after the pandemic

Photo of children using Taco Bell’s Wi-Fi to do their schoolwork goes viral
When the COVID-19 pandemic began, schools across the country close their doors and students had to finish their school year online. Over the summer, the situation did not improve.
As kids return to school this fall, they are yet again having to use online distance learning to “go to school”. While this may work for children who have access to a computer and a strong wifi connection, there are thousands who are not so fortunate.
According to an analysis from July 2020, 16.9 million children in the United States do not have access to high-speed internet at home. 7.3 million children do not have a desktop, laptop, or tablet [1].
For these children, attending classes online is nearly impossible. This creates what is known as the “digital divide”. Students from wealthier families have the resources to keep up with their studies, while the others are at risk of falling behind.
This divide was exemplified a couple of weeks ago, when a photo of two young girls sitting outside a Taco Bell went viral.
Taco Bell Wifi
The photo showed two young girls in Salinas City, California, sitting on the pavement outside a Taco Bell doing their schoolwork. They were using the restaurant’s wifi, because they did not have a strong enough connection at home.
The photo, which highlighted the disadvantages many low-income families face with online learning, quickly made its rounds on the internet. California Senate President Kevin de Leon posted the photo on Twitter with the following caption:
“Two students sit outside a Taco Bell to use Wi-Fi so they can ‘go to school’ online. This is California, home to Silicon Valley…but where the digital divide is as deep as ever. Where 40% of all Latinos don’t have internet access. This generation deserves better.” [2].
Amy Ish, president of the Salinas City Elementary School District’s board of education commented on the situation, saying the digital divide is “very real”. She notes that delays in receiving needed technology are a concern across the entire state.
“We are grateful the state is making technology a priority and look forward to receiving these hotspots in our district,” she added [3].
2 of our children trying to get WiFi for their classes outside a Taco Bell in East Salinas! We must do better & solve this digital divide once &for all for all California students
CALIFORNIA NEEDS A UNIVERSAL BROADBAND INFRASTRUCTURE BOND FOR OUR STUDENTShttps://t.co/qEjWTTs6G8 pic.twitter.com/cAbXNJ6F7x — Luis Alejo⚖ (@SupervisorAlejo) August 26, 2020
The Digital Divide
This digital divide is making headlines now, but the reality is that it existed long before the COVID-19 pandemic began. This divide disproportionately affects students of color, low-income students, and families living in rural areas.
One in three Black, Latino, and American Indian/Alaska Native families do not have high-speed internet at home. One in three families who earn less than fifty thousand dollars per year are also without reliable internet. Two in five rural families face the same issue [1].
So far, the job of providing students with the necessary tools and internet access has fallen on the school districts. Schools are trying to give students and families access to internet hotspots, tablets, and laptops to use at home. Experts, however, are arguing that this is only a short-term solution to a much larger problem.
In a report for The Atlantic, Olga Khazan made the following statement:
“Experts and former Federal Communications Commission officials describe a federal government that has neglected to treat broadband as a public utility, instead relying on the largely self-regulated internet industry to provide service wherever it wanted, for the price of its choosing.” [4]
She added that the United States government has not regarded fast internet as something everyone should have, like water or phone service. The consequences of this have been a problem for years, but the coronavirus has highlighted them in a stark way.
A Helping Hand
Upon seeing the photo of the two girls, a local woman named Jackie Lopez tracked down their mother, wanting to help. She learned that they were sharing a bedroom with their mom and one other sister, and did not even have a space for a proper desk.
The girls’ mother, Juana, is a migrant worker. At the time of the photo, she was facing eviction from her rented room. Lopez started a GoFundMe page to help, which has now raised over 130 thousand dollars for the family. They are now working with an accountant to help them manage their funds.
“All children deserve a happy place to live and because of their dedication, these little girls deserve a safe space to learn,” Lopez wrote. “We appreciate every single one of you for helping making that happen.” [5]
This is a beautiful story of altruism and human kindness. The sad reality is that there are thousands of other children across the country facing similar situations. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, there is no way of knowing when students will be able to return to school, and many of them are at risk of falling behind.
The authors of the July analysis concluded their report with the following statement:


theheartysoul--2020-09-17--Passenger Planes Become Fire-Fighting Aircrafts to Battle the Californian Wildfires

Forest and wildfires are becoming more dangerous every year .
In 2020 alone , we ’ ve seen these fires devastate parts of Australia , Ukraine , Serbia , Brazil , and California .
The blazes can tear across forests and homes and reduce them to smoldering ash .
Putting them out is no easy task .
Firefighters can battle the flames from the ground but air support is often necessary .
Aerial tankers can dose the fires with water or fire retardant , a dangerous mission , but a truly heroic one .
This is the perfect task for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ freight or passengers .
The Boeing 747 : The Plane Transformed into a Fire-Fighting Machine Not many planes are built for firefighting , so older aircraft are being reconstructed into flying ‘ fire trucks ’ .
The bigger the jet , the more helpful they will be to stop the fires .
Introducing the Boeing 747 .
It was once the largest passenger airliner in the world ( until the A380 came to be ) and now it ’ s the largest firefighter airliner .
It ’ s the only one of its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the globe .
The gigantic frame stores water tanks to extinguish fires wherever they are .
The seats were removed to make room for the tanks , which can hold 19,200 gallons of water .
[ 1 ] Before it began fighting fires , the Boeing 747 flew for Japan Airlines and Evergreen International Airlines .
Like a bombardier on a warplane , the person sitting by the command station deploys the water through the ports on the bottom of the aircraft .
There ’ s also the “ emergency dump ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the tanks .
In flight , the plane looks like something out of an action movie , diving over the flames and releasing a red fire retardant beneath them .
Aside from its vital missions , the plane looks fairly average on the outside .
The Boeing 747 is Fighting the 2020 Californian Wildfires AdvertisementThe Boeing 747 is also appropriately dubbed the Global Supertanker .
Nowadays , it fights the blazing wildfires in California where there have been over 560 blazes all over the state .
The weather has increased the risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with its dry thunderstorms and pyrocumulus clouds .
Piloting the Boeing 747 and similar aircrafts is a hazardous job .
The planes must get close to the flames to put it out , which is truly not for the faint of heart .
The Boeing 747 is the only aircraft of the Global Supertanker Services , which is based in Colorado .
However , it can still operate from any airport that has an 8,000-foot runway among other necessary facilities .
The plane was the first one certified by the Federal Aviation Administration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Since then , it has fought wildfires in Israel and Chile , as well as California back in 2017 .
It can spray water or a fire retardant over an area about 3 miles long and is about 150 feet wide .
[ 2 ] The Three Main Types of Aircraft in the Californian Air Force AdvertisementThe California wildfires has blackened about 2.2 million acres according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection ( Cal Fire ) .
Cal Fire has its own aircraft fleet to fight the recurring wildfires , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As of August 23 , about 95 of these aircrafts were fighting the fires .
The tactical aircrafts monitor the fires and direct the other crafts to the most endangered areas .
The helicopters deploy water and transports firefighters and any equipment required .
Finally , the tankers exclusively drop water or fire retardants .
The Boeing 747 falls under this latter category .
It ’ s remarkable how many crafts were recycled from typical airliners into these fire-fighting machines .
Meanwhile , 15,600 firefighters battle from the ground against the 19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
[ 3 ] Two of the Worst Californian Wildfires Ever Some of the firefighters are working 24-hour shifts due to the numerous fires and lack of resources .
This shortage is partially because the Covid-19 pandemic has released prison inmates early .
These inmate firefighters “ are an integral part of our firefighting operations , ” according to Christine McMorrow , a Cal Fire spokeswoman .
Meaning , 600 less inmates are available for these wildfires compared to the amount last year .
Advertisement These fires include the LNU Lightning Complex Fire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are “ the second and third largest that have occurred in California , ” said Incident Commander Sean Kavanaugh .
“ …To have both of those going off at the same time is saying something .
It gives us the magnitude of what has happened here in the last week here in the state.
” [ 4 ] Since the lightning strike that ignited the fires that began on August 15 , over 900 new wildfires started up .
Horrifyingly , almost 1.5 million acres has been burned since then .
As devastating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is a committed air force doing their utmost to stop them .
All the respect goes to the firefighting pilots and crew who fly into the heart of the danger to extinguish as much as they can .
Keep Reading : Washington becomes seventh U.S. state to outlaw wildlife killing contests

Forest and wildfires are becoming more dangerous every year. In 2020 alone, we’ve seen these fires devastate parts of Australia, Ukraine, Serbia, Brazil, and California. The blazes can tear across forests and homes and reduce them to smoldering ash. Putting them out is no easy task.
Firefighters can battle the flames from the ground but air support is often necessary. Aerial tankers can dose the fires with water or fire retardant, a dangerous mission, but a truly heroic one. This is the perfect task for retired airliners who are no longer flying freight or passengers.
The Boeing 747: The Plane Transformed into a Fire-Fighting Machine
Not many planes are built for firefighting, so older aircraft are being reconstructed into flying ‘fire trucks’. The bigger the jet, the more helpful they will be to stop the fires.
Introducing the Boeing 747. It was once the largest passenger airliner in the world (until the A380 came to be) and now it’s the largest firefighter airliner. It’s the only one of its kind and it has saved lives all over the globe. The gigantic frame stores water tanks to extinguish fires wherever they are. The seats were removed to make room for the tanks, which can hold 19,200 gallons of water. [1]
Before it began fighting fires, the Boeing 747 flew for Japan Airlines and Evergreen International Airlines.
Like a bombardier on a warplane, the person sitting by the command station deploys the water through the ports on the bottom of the aircraft. There’s also the “emergency dump” button that releases all of the contents in the tanks. In flight, the plane looks like something out of an action movie, diving over the flames and releasing a red fire retardant beneath them. Aside from its vital missions, the plane looks fairly average on the outside.
The Boeing 747 is Fighting the 2020 Californian Wildfires
The Boeing 747 is also appropriately dubbed the Global Supertanker. Nowadays, it fights the blazing wildfires in California where there have been over 560 blazes all over the state. The weather has increased the risk of spreading the fires and mulitply them with its dry thunderstorms and pyrocumulus clouds.
Piloting the Boeing 747 and similar aircrafts is a hazardous job. The planes must get close to the flames to put it out, which is truly not for the faint of heart. The Boeing 747 is the only aircraft of the Global Supertanker Services, which is based in Colorado. However, it can still operate from any airport that has an 8,000-foot runway among other necessary facilities.
The plane was the first one certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in September 2016. Since then, it has fought wildfires in Israel and Chile, as well as California back in 2017. It can spray water or a fire retardant over an area about 3 miles long and is about 150 feet wide. [2]
The Three Main Types of Aircraft in the Californian Air Force
The California wildfires has blackened about 2.2 million acres according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire). Cal Fire has its own aircraft fleet to fight the recurring wildfires, including tactical planes, airtankers and helicopters. As of August 23, about 95 of these aircrafts were fighting the fires.
The tactical aircrafts monitor the fires and direct the other crafts to the most endangered areas. The helicopters deploy water and transports firefighters and any equipment required. Finally, the tankers exclusively drop water or fire retardants. The Boeing 747 falls under this latter category. It’s remarkable how many crafts were recycled from typical airliners into these fire-fighting machines.
Meanwhile, 15,600 firefighters battle from the ground against the 19 largest fires in California since September 1. [3]
Two of the Worst Californian Wildfires Ever
Some of the firefighters are working 24-hour shifts due to the numerous fires and lack of resources. This shortage is partially because the Covid-19 pandemic has released prison inmates early.
These inmate firefighters “are an integral part of our firefighting operations,” according to Christine McMorrow, a Cal Fire spokeswoman. Meaning, 600 less inmates are available for these wildfires compared to the amount last year.
These fires include the LNU Lightning Complex Fire and SCU Lightning Complex Fire, which are “the second and third largest that have occurred in California,” said Incident Commander Sean Kavanaugh. “…To have both of those going off at the same time is saying something. It gives us the magnitude of what has happened here in the last week here in the state.” [4]
Since the lightning strike that ignited the fires that began on August 15, over 900 new wildfires started up. Horrifyingly, almost 1.5 million acres has been burned since then. As devastating as the wildfires are, at least there is a committed air force doing their utmost to stop them. All the respect goes to the firefighting pilots and crew who fly into the heart of the danger to extinguish as much as they can.
Keep Reading: Washington becomes seventh U.S. state to outlaw wildlife killing contests
References:


theheartysoul--2020-09-17--Explore Ruins and Hike Through the Walnut Canyon National Monument

As lockdowns are let up , people are itching to get out of the house and see the world .
Of course , it ’ s imperative to stay safe — the coronavirus pandemic isn ’ t over .
For people setting out on day trips , be aware that , when it comes to crowded spaces , it ’ s safer to stay outdoors than indoors as it ’ s been shown to help reduce the risk of spreading the virus .
Through precautions still need to be taken [ 1 ] With that being said , there ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ easy and relaxing hike through the Walnut Canyon National Monument in Arizona .
Walnut Canyon is consisted of two trails : Island and Rim .
The Island Trail is brief but intense .
It descends 185 feet into the canyon before returning to the same route .
It ’ s a one-mile round-trip , a perfect detour on a Flagstaff day trip .
The spiraling pathways pass through archaeological wonders created by ancient people with early knowledge of construction and primitive tools , an ancient cliff dwelling that has been dated back over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the view is absolutely gorgeous .
[ 2 ] Read : The Montezuma Castle – The Incredible Stone Dwelling Built Almost a Millennium Ago Is Still Intact The Sinagua are a group of ancestral Puebloans named after the Spanish term that translates “ without water ” .
The Spaniards gave this name to the San Francisco Peaks that surround this place , Sierra Sin Agua .
The Sinagua have also constructed Montezuma Castle , Tuzigoot , and other cliff dwellings but the Walnut Canyon ’ s have been the most well-preserved .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Walnut Canyon that may seem like they are about to fall in .
However , upon a closer look , the lodgings are strong and sturdy in no danger of caving .
After all , all 25 of them stood for hundreds of years now .
They used limestone rocks as bricks and clay as mortar with wooden beams to reinforce the doorways .
And yes , visitors can enter the dwellings and see it up close themselves .
It makes anyone wonder what life was like back then .
Plaque containing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around the site , including how the rooms were used and how life was .
The walls and ceilings are blackened from fires lit hundreds of years ago , probably to cook or warm up the place .
AdvertisementAdvertisementThe visitor center contains more information about the canyon and about the ancient people .
It also displays artifacts like a clay pitcher and cloth fragments .
Read : Arizona Is Home To Ancient , 200 Million-Year-Old Trees , Some Of The World ’ s Oldest !
However , the best is yet to come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surrounded by incredible forest and mountainous landscapes that stretch across the horizon .
It ’ s no wonder the Sinagua people wanted to live up there .
Imagine the serene and awe-inspiring world just outside their homes !
Along the Rim Trail , you can stop along the hike to take in the view of the canyon ’ s depth of 400 feet and its quarter-mile width .
You ’ ll also be able to see the cliff dwellings on its limestone ledges .
There ’ s also a lot of vegetation there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ greenest in the Southwest .
You ’ ll see ponderosa pines , pinyon and juniper forests .
At the bottom of the canyon , you ’ ll spot the riparian area where the Walnut Creek used to be .
Depending on the trail , you may find yucca and prickly pear cacti or Douglas firs and conifers .
At the bottom of the canyon , you ’ ll see riverbank vegetation thriving without the river , including aspens , black walnuts , and cottonwoods .
Advertisement The Rim Trail offers a more pleasant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trail .
It ’ s short , paved , and allows pets to join .
It reaches the first viewpoint and contains viewfinder telescopes to scope out the cliff dwellings .
The wildlife at Walnut Canyon includes plenty of lizards , squirrels , chipmunks , blue jays , pinyon jays , canyon wrens , mule deer , cottontail rabbits , and jackrabbits .
It ’ s a wide variety of fauna for such a relatively small area .
It also includes less safe creatures like coyotes , elk , mountain lions , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on numerous visits .
However , if you ’ re lucky , you might spot a golden eagle , a prairie falcon , and a horned owl , depending on the time of the visit .
[ 3 ] Keep in mind that health and safety always comes before any trip .
If you are restricted because of the pandemic , this canyon is a great addition to the traveling bucket list .
Keep Reading : 21 Unbelievable Places That Look Like They ’ re From Another Planet

As lockdowns are let up, people are itching to get out of the house and see the world. Of course, it’s imperative to stay safe — the coronavirus pandemic isn’t over. For people setting out on day trips, be aware that, when it comes to crowded spaces, it’s safer to stay outdoors than indoors as it’s been shown to help reduce the risk of spreading the virus. Through precautions still need to be taken [1]
With that being said, there’s no better time to take an easy and relaxing hike through the Walnut Canyon National Monument in Arizona.
A Stunning Hike Through the Walnut Canyon National Monument
Walnut Canyon is consisted of two trails: Island and Rim.
The Island Trail is brief but intense. It descends 185 feet into the canyon before returning to the same route. It’s a one-mile round-trip, a perfect detour on a Flagstaff day trip. The spiraling pathways pass through archaeological wonders created by ancient people with early knowledge of construction and primitive tools, an ancient cliff dwelling that has been dated back over 700 years.
Even more so, the view is absolutely gorgeous. [2]
Read: The Montezuma Castle – The Incredible Stone Dwelling Built Almost a Millennium Ago Is Still Intact
About the Sinagua
The Sinagua are a group of ancestral Puebloans named after the Spanish term that translates “without water”. The Spaniards gave this name to the San Francisco Peaks that surround this place, Sierra Sin Agua. The Sinagua have also constructed Montezuma Castle, Tuzigoot, and other cliff dwellings but the Walnut Canyon’s have been the most well-preserved.
The intricate dwellings the Sinagua built in the Walnut Canyon that may seem like they are about to fall in. However, upon a closer look, the lodgings are strong and sturdy in no danger of caving. After all, all 25 of them stood for hundreds of years now. They used limestone rocks as bricks and clay as mortar with wooden beams to reinforce the doorways.
And yes, visitors can enter the dwellings and see it up close themselves. It makes anyone wonder what life was like back then. Plaque containing information about the historical era are all around the site, including how the rooms were used and how life was. The walls and ceilings are blackened from fires lit hundreds of years ago, probably to cook or warm up the place.
The visitor center contains more information about the canyon and about the ancient people. It also displays artifacts like a clay pitcher and cloth fragments.
Read: Arizona Is Home To Ancient, 200 Million-Year-Old Trees, Some Of The World’s Oldest!
The View and Vegetation
However, the best is yet to come. At the summit, you are surrounded by incredible forest and mountainous landscapes that stretch across the horizon. It’s no wonder the Sinagua people wanted to live up there. Imagine the serene and awe-inspiring world just outside their homes!
Along the Rim Trail, you can stop along the hike to take in the view of the canyon’s depth of 400 feet and its quarter-mile width. You’ll also be able to see the cliff dwellings on its limestone ledges.
There’s also a lot of vegetation there since Walnut Canyon is one of the greenest in the Southwest. You’ll see ponderosa pines, pinyon and juniper forests. At the bottom of the canyon, you’ll spot the riparian area where the Walnut Creek used to be. Depending on the trail, you may find yucca and prickly pear cacti or Douglas firs and conifers. At the bottom of the canyon, you’ll see riverbank vegetation thriving without the river, including aspens, black walnuts, and cottonwoods.
The Rim Trail offers a more pleasant and less strenuous walk than the Island Trail. It’s short, paved, and allows pets to join. It reaches the first viewpoint and contains viewfinder telescopes to scope out the cliff dwellings.
The Wildlife
The wildlife at Walnut Canyon includes plenty of lizards, squirrels, chipmunks, blue jays, pinyon jays, canyon wrens, mule deer, cottontail rabbits, and jackrabbits. It’s a wide variety of fauna for such a relatively small area. It also includes less safe creatures like coyotes, elk, mountain lions, and pronghorn antelopes, which have been spotted on numerous visits. However, if you’re lucky, you might spot a golden eagle, a prairie falcon, and a horned owl, depending on the time of the visit. [3]
Keep in mind that health and safety always comes before any trip. If you are restricted because of the pandemic, this canyon is a great addition to the traveling bucket list.
Keep Reading: 21 Unbelievable Places That Look Like They’re From Another Planet
References:


theheartysoul--2020-09-17--Windows become transparent solar panels with added nanoparticles

Imagine if the sun shining in through the windows could be used to power your home or business .
With these new transparent solar panels , that dream could become a reality .
The latest technology to enter the world of solar power is photovoltaic ( PV ) glass , also known as transparent solar panels .
( 1 ) This technology can be used to create windows that generate power where windows already exists , like businesses , our homes , car windows & sunroofs , and even smartphones ( 1 ) Researchers at Michigan State University were the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ solar panel in 2014 , and now researchers elsewhere in the United States and in Europe have been able to create fully transparent solar glass .
( 1 ) Read : This Adventure-Ready Tiny House Has a Mud Room and Fold-Down Deck The job of a solar panel is to absorb sunlight and convert that sunlight into power .
Until now , clear solar panels weren ’ t possible because the light passes right through the glass instead of being harnessed for energy production .
( 1 ) AdvertisementThis new technology can turn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a PV cell .
This cell selectively chooses a portion of the solar spectrum that the human eye can ’ t see , while allowing the rest of the light to pass through .
It does this using a transparent luminescent solar concentrator ( TLSC ) .
( 1 ) The TLSC is made of organic salts that absorb specific invisible UV and infrared light wavelengths which are then made to glow as another invisible wavelength .
That wavelength is then transferred to the edge of the window where thin PV solar strips @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) This past August , Michigan University researchers set a new record for efficiency of color-neutral transparent solar cells .
( 2 ) Using an organic , carbon-based design , they achieved ( 2 ) : AdvertisementThe cells are similar to the grey tint of car windows or sunglasses , but instead , have a slightly green appearance to them .
Previous transparent solar cells have only had a 2 – 3 % efficiency , so this is a promising technology .
( 2 ) To put this into perspective , regular nontransparent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % ( 4 ) .
While transparent solar may not stack up when compared to standard solar technology , it ’ s improving .
The idea is essentially to use the coating that most building windows already have to help reduce brightness and heat inside the building to instead create energy .
( 2 ) An advanced materials company UbiQD in New Mexico is currently working on transparent solar panels that look just like regular , clear glass .
They are achieving this using a technology called quantum dots : Microscopic nanoparticles that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the same technology used in some of the newer smart TVs .
Quantum dots ( nanoparticles ) are so tiny that it would take 100,000 of them to cover even just your fingernail .
They have extremely high efficiency and size-tunable photoluminescence , aka light emission , in several colors .
( 2 ) Though the efficiency of these panels is only 3.6 % , it is promising for the future .
( 3 ) UbiQD has already partnered with quantum dot manufacturer Nanosys to create panels for greenhouses that help plants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3 ) Advertisement Read : Affordable Solar Homes Produce as Much Energy as They Use It is estimated the United States has anywhere from five to seven billion square meters of glass surfaces .
This means that transparent solar panels have the potential to meet up to 40 % of the country ’ s energy demands .
Combined them with rooftop solar panels and we have the potential to meet 100 % of our current energy needs .
( 1 ) While there is still a ways to go before these panels are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the prospect of achieving 100 % green energy is certainly an exciting one .
Keep Reading : ‘ Anti-Solar ’ Cells Could Keep the Power Going at Night

Imagine if the sun shining in through the windows could be used to power your home or business. With these new transparent solar panels, that dream could become a reality.
Transparent Solar Panels for Windows
The latest technology to enter the world of solar power is photovoltaic (PV) glass, also known as transparent solar panels. (1) This technology can be used to create windows that generate power where windows already exists, like businesses, our homes, car windows & sunroofs, and even smartphones (1)
Researchers at Michigan State University were the first to create this type of clear solar panel in 2014, and now researchers elsewhere in the United States and in Europe have been able to create fully transparent solar glass. (1)
Read: This Adventure-Ready Tiny House Has a Mud Room and Fold-Down Deck
How They Work
The job of a solar panel is to absorb sunlight and convert that sunlight into power.
Until now, clear solar panels weren’t possible because the light passes right through the glass instead of being harnessed for energy production. (1)
This new technology can turn essentially any glass sheet or window into a PV cell. This cell selectively chooses a portion of the solar spectrum that the human eye can’t see, while allowing the rest of the light to pass through. It does this using a transparent luminescent solar concentrator (TLSC). (1)
The TLSC is made of organic salts that absorb specific invisible UV and infrared light wavelengths which are then made to glow as another invisible wavelength. That wavelength is then transferred to the edge of the window where thin PV solar strips convert it into energy. (1)
A New Breakthrough
This past August, Michigan University researchers set a new record for efficiency of color-neutral transparent solar cells. (2) Using an organic, carbon-based design, they achieved (2):
8.1% efficiency
43.3% transparency
The cells are similar to the grey tint of car windows or sunglasses, but instead, have a slightly green appearance to them. Previous transparent solar cells have only had a 2 – 3% efficiency, so this is a promising technology. (2) To put this into perspective, regular nontransparent solar cells have an efficiency between 15-20% (4). While transparent solar may not stack up when compared to standard solar technology, it’s improving.
“Windows, which are on the face of every building, are an ideal location for organic solar cells because they offer something silicon can’t, which is a combination of very high efficiency and very high visible transparency,” Engineering professor Stephen Forrest explained. (2)
The idea is essentially to use the coating that most building windows already have to help reduce brightness and heat inside the building to instead create energy. (2)
The Drive For Completely Clear Panels Continues
An advanced materials company UbiQD in New Mexico is currently working on transparent solar panels that look just like regular, clear glass. They are achieving this using a technology called quantum dots: Microscopic nanoparticles that manipulate light. (2) This is the same technology used in some of the newer smart TVs.
Quantum dots (nanoparticles) are so tiny that it would take 100,000 of them to cover even just your fingernail. They have extremely high efficiency and size-tunable photoluminescence, aka light emission, in several colors. (2)
Though the efficiency of these panels is only 3.6%, it is promising for the future. (3) UbiQD has already partnered with quantum dot manufacturer Nanosys to create panels for greenhouses that help plants get more from the sun. (3)
Read: Affordable Solar Homes Produce as Much Energy as They Use
Windows of the Future
It is estimated the United States has anywhere from five to seven billion square meters of glass surfaces. This means that transparent solar panels have the potential to meet up to 40% of the country’s energy demands. Combined them with rooftop solar panels and we have the potential to meet 100% of our current energy needs. (1)
While there is still a ways to go before these panels are implemented in buildings and structures across America , the prospect of achieving 100% green energy is certainly an exciting one.


theheartysoul--2020-09-17--The Himalayan invention powered by pine needles

So much of green energy is all about using the resources that are abundant locally .
Most often people think of things like wind , water , and solar power .
This new Himalayan invention , however , is using something far less “ conventional ” : Pine needles .
A large portion of the Indian state of Uttarakhand , aka Dev Bhoomi or “ Land of Gods ” , is made up of chir pine forests .
These forests were planted by British colonists and were used later on by governments for resin and timber .
All-told , these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 1,540 square miles ) .
( 1 ) As with most foreign things brought into a new ecosystem by humans , this has caused some problems .
As the trees shed their pine needles , which yield 1.3 million tonnes annually , they completely cover the forest floor in highly flammable kindling .
( 1 ) The forest fires that ensue from these needles cause extreme damage to the forest floor and the natural ecosystem .
The charred ground leftover is not conducive to the indigenous grasses and broadleaf oak trees , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as medicinal herbs .
( 1 ) AdvertisementAdvertisement Rajnish Jain , a management consultant who has a background in solar irrigation , says the pine needles could be used to solve several problems including ( 1 ) : • Replace cooking fuel , which has to be brought into the region • Provide a reliable income from agriculture to prevent people from moving away in search of work .
In 1999 , he and his wife Rashmi set up Avani at Berinag and began researching how to use pine needles for biomass gasification @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Have Found a Way to Make More Durable Roads Out of Old Tires And Rubble Biomass gasification is a technology that uses heat , steam , and oxygen to convert biomass into hydrogen and other products for energy without using combustion .
Biomass refers to a renewable organic resource , in this case , pine needles .
( 2 ) If coupled with carbon capture , utilization , and storage , this can be a carbon net-zero form of energy , because the growing of biomass actively removes carbon from the atmosphere .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gasification in India AdvertisementRajnish and Rashmi aren ’ t the first to experiment with this type of energy production in India .
In 1994 , engineers from the Indian Institute of Science , Bangalore began working with Swiss engineering company Dasag to improve existing biomass gasifiers .
( 1 ) In their experiments , the biomass they used was agricultural waste like coconut shells , leaves , and rice husks .
The biomass was heated to over 1,000 degrees celsius in an oxygen-reduced environment .
( 1 ) This causes it to give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ monoxide , methane , and hydrogen .
The gases are then cleaned and burned to power an electric generator .
They improved on this design and patented it , and now have 30 functioning units in the villages of Karnataka , India .
It ’ s also being used in parts of The United States , Japan , and Switzerland .
( 1 ) Despite its history of use in India , when Rajnish brought his idea of using the pine needles to other researchers and government officials , he was met with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pine needles weren ’ t dense enough .
( 1 ) Advertisement He also had trouble getting the villagers onboard .
Established in 1953 by a pair of Swiss brothers , The Volkart Foundation is one that supports NGOs working in poor communities .
They found Rajnish ’ s idea interesting and invested , allowing Rajnish to conduct trials .
After a few experiments , they finally found one that worked : Increasing the density of the needles by chopping them into smaller pieces before putting them in the gasifier .
( 1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after his initial idea , he set up a 9 kWh pine needle power plant .
This plant powers the Avani workshop .
The leftover carbon powder produced by the process is bound together using a local glue to form briquettes , which are then burned as a sustainable source of cooking fuel .
( 1 ) Read : Microalgae System Turns Pollution Into Oxygen Equivalent To More Than 300 Trees For-profit social enterprise Avani Bio Energy was established in 2011 .
They then signed a deal with the state electrical facility that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ percentage of its energy to come from renewable sources .
( 1 ) In 2014 , the Uttarakhand Renewable Energy Development Agency brought into effect a policy on the commercial use of pine needles .
This included using them for biomass gasification .
( 1 ) There were several challenges to using pine needle biomass gasification on a large scale .
Firstly , the mountains can not be navigated by motorized vehicles , so instead the needles must be collected by hand .
( 1 ) Secondly , the generators need 1.5 kilos @ @ @ @ @ @ @ power produced .
This means they are limited to small power plants of 10-25 kWh each rather than one big plant , to keep manual collection do-able .
( 1 ) Thirdly , the needle collectors , mostly women , were hesitant to join the project at the beginning .
However , when they learned they could make double the typical minimum daily wage , they gave it a try .
( 1 ) So far , there are 17 plants in various villages in the region , with another 40 in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ owned by local entrepreneurs .
( 1 ) This Himalayan invention of pine needle plants has been markedly beneficial to the villages .
It ’ s helped to boost the local economy , lower the incidence of fire , and helped revive the use of indigenous medicinal plants .
Let ’ s hope the progress continues .
Keep Reading : Scientists Make Fuel From Carbon Dioxide Using The Motion of Waves

So much of green energy is all about using the resources that are abundant locally. Most often people think of things like wind, water, and solar power. This new Himalayan invention, however, is using something far less “conventional”: Pine needles.
Himalayan Invention Uses Pine Needles for Power
A large portion of the Indian state of Uttarakhand, aka Dev Bhoomi or “Land of Gods”, is made up of chir pine forests. These forests were planted by British colonists and were used later on by governments for resin and timber. All-told, these forests cover almost 400,000 hectares of land (1,540 square miles). (1)
As with most foreign things brought into a new ecosystem by humans, this has caused some problems. As the trees shed their pine needles, which yield 1.3 million tonnes annually, they completely cover the forest floor in highly flammable kindling. (1)
The forest fires that ensue from these needles cause extreme damage to the forest floor and the natural ecosystem. The charred ground leftover is not conducive to the indigenous grasses and broadleaf oak trees, as well as the 1,800 plants used as medicinal herbs. (1)
“Indigenous plants and trees are valuable ecologically and socially as they conserve soil and water, thus allowing rich biodiversity of wild edibles and minor forest produce that are used by locals,” says Negi, head of the Centre for Socioeconomic Development at the GB Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment. “The loss of natural wealth translates into much more than a monetary one for our socio-cultural fabric.” (1)
A Green Energy Solution
Rajnish Jain, a management consultant who has a background in solar irrigation, says the pine needles could be used to solve several problems including (1):
Forest fires
A reliable source of green energy
Replace cooking fuel, which has to be brought into the region
Provide a reliable income from agriculture to prevent people from moving away in search of work.
In 1999, he and his wife Rashmi set up Avani at Berinag and began researching how to use pine needles for biomass gasification. (1)
Read: Engineers Have Found a Way to Make More Durable Roads Out of Old Tires And Rubble
What is Biomass Gasification?
Biomass gasification is a technology that uses heat, steam, and oxygen to convert biomass into hydrogen and other products for energy without using combustion. Biomass refers to a renewable organic resource, in this case, pine needles. (2)
If coupled with carbon capture, utilization, and storage, this can be a carbon net-zero form of energy, because the growing of biomass actively removes carbon from the atmosphere. (2)
The History of Biomass Gasification in India
Rajnish and Rashmi aren’t the first to experiment with this type of energy production in India. In 1994, engineers from the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore began working with Swiss engineering company Dasag to improve existing biomass gasifiers. (1)
In their experiments, the biomass they used was agricultural waste like coconut shells, leaves, and rice husks.
The biomass was heated to over 1,000 degrees celsius in an oxygen-reduced environment. (1) This causes it to give off various gases, including, carbon monoxide, methane, and hydrogen.
The gases are then cleaned and burned to power an electric generator. They improved on this design and patented it, and now have 30 functioning units in the villages of Karnataka, India. It’s also being used in parts of The United States, Japan, and Switzerland. (1)
Initial Rejection
Despite its history of use in India, when Rajnish brought his idea of using the pine needles to other researchers and government officials, he was met with much resistance. They argued that the pine needles weren’t dense enough. (1)
He also had trouble getting the villagers onboard.
“The villagers thought I was out of my mind,” recalls Rajnish. “They did not know about biomass gasification, and generating electricity from pine needles seemed an alien concept.” (1)
The Volkart Foundation
Established in 1953 by a pair of Swiss brothers, The Volkart Foundation is one that supports NGOs working in poor communities. They found Rajnish’s idea interesting and invested, allowing Rajnish to conduct trials. After a few experiments, they finally found one that worked: Increasing the density of the needles by chopping them into smaller pieces before putting them in the gasifier. (1)
Finally in 2009, ten years after his initial idea, he set up a 9 kWh pine needle power plant. This plant powers the Avani workshop. The leftover carbon powder produced by the process is bound together using a local glue to form briquettes, which are then burned as a sustainable source of cooking fuel. (1)
Read: Microalgae System Turns Pollution Into Oxygen Equivalent To More Than 300 Trees
Avani Bio Energy
For-profit social enterprise Avani Bio Energy was established in 2011. They then signed a deal with the state electrical facility that made it a national policy for a percentage of its energy to come from renewable sources. (1)
In 2014, the Uttarakhand Renewable Energy Development Agency brought into effect a policy on the commercial use of pine needles. This included using them for biomass gasification. (1)
Not an Easy Feat
There were several challenges to using pine needle biomass gasification on a large scale.
Firstly, the mountains can not be navigated by motorized vehicles, so instead the needles must be collected by hand. (1)
Secondly, the generators need 1.5 kilos of pine needles per 1 kWh of power produced. This means they are limited to small power plants of 10-25 kWh each rather than one big plant, to keep manual collection do-able. (1)
Thirdly, the needle collectors, mostly women, were hesitant to join the project at the beginning. However, when they learned they could make double the typical minimum daily wage, they gave it a try. (1)
A Successful Project
So far, there are 17 plants in various villages in the region, with another 40 in the works. Many of these plants are owned by local entrepreneurs. (1)
This Himalayan invention of pine needle plants has been markedly beneficial to the villages. It’s helped to boost the local economy, lower the incidence of fire, and helped revive the use of indigenous medicinal plants. Let’s hope the progress continues.


theheartysoul--2020-09-17--Birds Mysteriously Dropping Dead Across Southwestern U.S.

Currently , in the southwestern United States , there are hundreds of thousands of migratory birds dying , and biologists can ’ t figure out the reason .
This is what we know so far .
Hundreds of Thousands of Birds Dying in the Midwest Researchers from New Mexico State University ’ s department of fish , wildlife , and conservation ecology have a growing concern about the number of species of birds they are finding dead in and around the state .
The die-offs were first noticed last month at the White Sands Missile Range and the White Sands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been found since then , and the numbers continue to climb .
( 1 ) According to NMSU biologist Allison Salas , the birds seem to be in relatively good condition , except for that they have almost no muscle mass and fat reserves .
On Twitter , she said that it seemed almost as though they just flew until they couldn ’ t any longer .
None of the species found are resident birds , instead , all of them being migratory .
Among the various species that have been found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of these species ’ populations were already struggling before this event , so this is especially devastating .
Experts at NMSU say that the birds have been showing strange behavior before dying .
( 1 ) This includes ( 1 ) : • Hopping around on the ground when they usually are perched in trees or bushes • Flying slowly as if in a daze The latter causes them to get hit by cars because they are simply too slow to fly out of the way in time .
This is not an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dying en masse in Colorado , Arizona , and Texas , as well .
The short answer is that at this point , biologists don ’ t know .
Some have thought perhaps it could have to do with a cold-snap in New Mexico last week , but according to Desmond , the birds were being found before that time .
That also wouldn ’ t explain the birds dying in other states .
AdvertisementThe theory right now is that it is related to the extremely dry conditions that have taken over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ California , Washington , and Oregon .
Desmond says ultimately , she believes it boils down to climate change .
Not much is known right now about the impact that wildfires and the smoke they produce has on bird populations , but the biologists are hoping that they can at least use this to learn more .
Until then , if you see higher numbers of dead birds in your area , you can report them on the iNaturalist app that Desmond and her team are using to track the birds .
Keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crazy ’ killer whales launched coordinated attacks on boats , terrifying the sailors and baffling scientists

Currently, in the southwestern United States, there are hundreds of thousands of migratory birds dying, and biologists can’t figure out the reason. This is what we know so far.
Hundreds of Thousands of Birds Dying in the Midwest
Researchers from New Mexico State University’s department of fish, wildlife, and conservation ecology have a growing concern about the number of species of birds they are finding dead in and around the state. The die-offs were first noticed last month at the White Sands Missile Range and the White Sands National Monument. Hundreds of dead birds have been found since then, and the numbers continue to climb. (1)
“The number is in the six figures. Just by looking at the scope of what we’re seeing, we know this is a very large event, hundreds of thousands and maybe even millions of dead birds, and we’re looking at the higher end of that.” says NMSU biologist Martha Desmond. (1)
According to NMSU biologist Allison Salas, the birds seem to be in relatively good condition, except for that they have almost no muscle mass and fat reserves. On Twitter, she said that it seemed almost as though they just flew until they couldn’t any longer.
None of the species found are resident birds, instead, all of them being migratory. Among the various species that have been found are several insect-eaters, including:
Sparrows
Warblers
Blackbirds
Bluebirds
Many of these species’ populations were already struggling before this event, so this is especially devastating.
Strange Behavior
Experts at NMSU say that the birds have been showing strange behavior before dying. (1) This includes (1):
Hopping around on the ground when they usually are perched in trees or bushes
Flying slowly as if in a daze
The latter causes them to get hit by cars because they are simply too slow to fly out of the way in time.
This is not an isolated event, either: Birds are dying en masse in Colorado, Arizona, and Texas, as well.
Why are Birds Dying?
The short answer is that at this point, biologists don’t know. Some have thought perhaps it could have to do with a cold-snap in New Mexico last week, but according to Desmond, the birds were being found before that time. That also wouldn’t explain the birds dying in other states.
The theory right now is that it is related to the extremely dry conditions that have taken over the state, and the wildfires currently ravaging California, Washington, and Oregon. Desmond says ultimately, she believes it boils down to climate change.
“We lost three billion birds in the U.S. since 1970 and we’ve also seen a tremendous decline in insects, so an event like this is terrifying to these populations and it’s devastating to see.” (1)
Not much is known right now about the impact that wildfires and the smoke they produce has on bird populations, but the biologists are hoping that they can at least use this to learn more.
Until then, if you see higher numbers of dead birds in your area, you can report them on the iNaturalist app that Desmond and her team are using to track the birds.
Keep Reading: A pod of killer ‘crazy’ killer whales launched coordinated attacks on boats, terrifying the sailors and baffling scientists


theheartysoul--2020-09-16--This ‘male’ octopus surprised its keepers with a cloud of 10,000 babies

Evidently , determining whether an octopus is a male or female is hard to even those whose career revolves around these interesting creatures .
In 2018 , when this male octopus had babies at the University of Georgia Marine Education Center and Aquarium , the curators were surprised , to say the least .
When the aquarium received what they thought was a male octopus , they named him Octavius and put him in his very own tank .
In the beginning , he was very social and highly curious about the visitors who came to see him .
Without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behavior inexplicably vanished , and he began spending most of his day hiding in a cave .
( 1 ) Finally one day near the end of October , the aquarium learned why .
When curator Devin Dumont went to clean Octavius ’ tank , he found a cloud of tiny particles floating in the water .
Octavius had given birth to thousands of babies , meaning of course , Octavius was female .
( 1 ) He scooped them all out of the tank into different buckets to be taken care of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all while knowing what this means for their new octopus .
( 1 ) Read : Dolphins appear to glow as they glide through bioluminescent waves The Beginning of the End Whether an octopus is male or female , their whole life begins and ends with procreation .
For males , the end is shortly after mating – they die shortly after mating with a female .
A female ’ s life , however , is extended a bit further .
( 2 ) Female octopi have the ability to store semen for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lay their eggs in optimal conditions .
In Octavius ’ case , she most likely was already pregnant when she arrived at the aquarium and waited until she felt comfortable to finally give birth .
( 2 ) Once she has laid her eggs , female octopi care for their eggs like no other .
She entirely forgoes eating to spend all of her time protecting her eggs from predators and blowing currents across her eggs to keep them clean .
Depending on the species , this can be anywhere from two to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the time the eggs hatch and go about their lives , their mother has all but wasted away completely .
At that point , she dies .
( 2 ) The exact gestation period for many octopi is still unknown .
In the spring of 2007 , researchers observed a female octopus that guarded her babies for a full 53 months before they hatched , setting a record for the longest-known brooding period for any animal , ever .
( 3 ) Octavius ’ babies will be dispersed in three main areas , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nursery tanks , and the shellfish research lab near the aquarium Many of Octavius ’ offspring will be helpful to help learn more about these strange and mysterious creatures so that more can be done to help protect and preserve them in the future .
Keep Reading : 16 Fish You Should Consider Never Eating

Evidently, determining whether an octopus is a male or female is hard to even those whose career revolves around these interesting creatures. In 2018, when this male octopus had babies at the University of Georgia Marine Education Center and Aquarium, the curators were surprised, to say the least.
‘Male’ Octopus Has Babies
When the aquarium received what they thought was a male octopus, they named him Octavius and put him in his very own tank. In the beginning, he was very social and highly curious about the visitors who came to see him. Without explanation, however, Octavius’ social behavior inexplicably vanished, and he began spending most of his day hiding in a cave. (1)
Finally one day near the end of October, the aquarium learned why. When curator Devin Dumont went to clean Octavius’ tank, he found a cloud of tiny particles floating in the water. Octavius had given birth to thousands of babies, meaning of course, Octavius was female. (1)
“I noticed this cloud of moving dots and I realized, ‘Oh my God, she had babies. There are babies. There are babies everywhere,'” Dumont recalls. (1)
He scooped them all out of the tank into different buckets to be taken care of by the rest of the staff, all while knowing what this means for their new octopus. (1)
Read: Dolphins appear to glow as they glide through bioluminescent waves
The Beginning of the End
Whether an octopus is male or female, their whole life begins and ends with procreation. For males, the end is shortly after mating – they die shortly after mating with a female. A female’s life, however, is extended a bit further. (2)
Female octopi have the ability to store semen for weeks after mating so that they can lay their eggs in optimal conditions. In Octavius’ case, she most likely was already pregnant when she arrived at the aquarium and waited until she felt comfortable to finally give birth. (2)
Once she has laid her eggs, female octopi care for their eggs like no other. She entirely forgoes eating to spend all of her time protecting her eggs from predators and blowing currents across her eggs to keep them clean. Depending on the species, this can be anywhere from two to 10 months. (2)
By the time the eggs hatch and go about their lives, their mother has all but wasted away completely. At that point, she dies. (2)
The exact gestation period for many octopi is still unknown. In the spring of 2007, researchers observed a female octopus that guarded her babies for a full 53 months before they hatched, setting a record for the longest-known brooding period for any animal, ever. (3)
What’s Next for Octavius’ Babies
Octavius’ babies will be dispersed in three main areas, including, the local Skidaway River, Nursery tanks, and the shellfish research lab near the aquarium
Many of Octavius’ offspring will be helpful to help learn more about these strange and mysterious creatures so that more can be done to help protect and preserve them in the future.