evolution

  • Two birds standing on a wooden post face each other with their mouths open as if they are arguing.
    birds

    Aggressive birds reveal how evolution repeats itself

    Scientists have long wondered whether evolution would follow the same path if it had a "do-over." New research suggests that it does.
  • A black pug stands outside on grass while on a walk.
    cats

    Team finds surprising ‘copycat evolution’ in some cats and dogs

    Biologists have shown evidence of a kind of "copycat" evolution between extremely short-faced breeds of cats and dogs.
  • A group of elephants walk across a dusty lake bed.
    evolution

    Ancient land bridge let humans, animals move between continents

    A gradual uplift of land enabled the early ancestors of animals such as giraffes, elephants, and even humans to roam between Africa and Asia.
  • A fossil of a crocodile relative's jaws, including several sharp teeth.
    evolution

    What’s the secret of the longevity of crocodile relatives?

    A new study reveals a secret to crocodile ancestors' longevity, which could help better protect our planet’s most vulnerable species.
  • The furry, four-legged Mixodectes pungens climbs on a tree using its claws.
    evolution

    62-million-year-old skeleton sheds light on mysterious mammal

    A new study of an ancient skeleton has answered many questions about an enigmatic critter called Mixodectes pungens.
  • A red and black velvet and stands on a white surface.
    pain

    Why this ant’s sting is one of the most painful

    A new study offers a glimpse into the evolutionary arms race between predators and prey and provides insights that may inform pain research.
  • A plastic model of a DNA double helix on a white background.
    evolution

    Genetic code’s origin story may need a rewrite

    Researchers have discovered strong evidence that the textbook version of how the universal genetic code evolved needs revision.
  • Raw meat in the shape of a question mark sits on a white plate with a fork and knife next to it.
    meat

    When did human ancestors begin to eat meat?

    A new study identifies human ancestor Australopithecus as a plant eater, narrowing when regular meat consumption increased and brains grew.
  • A bird sits on a branch above five chicks in a nest with their mouths wide open.
    birds

    Polygamy isn’t a great mating strategy for birds

    In one of the most comprehensive studies of its kind, researchers analyze how different bird mating practices shape evolution and survival.
  • A lamprey in a tank of water puts its toothy mouth on the glass.
    lampreys

    Super hot climate may have split lampreys into 2 groups

    New research on lampreys could have implications for how aquatic species respond to our current changing climate.
  • A Crested anole (Anolis cristatellus) opens the large orange and yellow flap on its neck.
    evolution

    Lizard meet-up shows evolution in action

    "This was a rare opportunity where we could watch evolution as it happened."
  • A fisherman wearing blue gloves and an orange jacket holds an anglerfish that has its toothy mouth wide open.
    evolution

    How weird anglerfish defied evolutionary odds

    "This work not only enhances our understanding of deep-sea biodiversity but also illustrates the resilience and creativity of evolution."