The cockroach

One gross, yucky pest gives up its secret!

An extermination trick that married insecticide with sugar worked for a while -- but then suddenly lost its power against roaches. Now science tells us why, as it highlights once again how human actions affect natural selection. More »

Ancient water = ancient habitat?

Pools of water in a Canadian mine are 1+ billion years old!

Geologic dating shows that water has been trapped more than 2 kilometers underground since before the Cambrian explosion. This water contains chemicals that support bacteria in other places. Could the deep biosphere contain relics of the most primitive life? Could such life exist on Mars? More »

Science Teachers: Hip yourself to a great resource!

Teaching the science standards? Looking for extra-credit projects?

The secret life of cats

What do free-roaming cats do all day, and why do their habits alarm scientists?

Humans and cats have enjoyed each other’s company for millennia, but scientists have discovered some troubling secrets of free-roaming felines that have wildlife and health experts worried. A new study reveals what free-roaming cats do all day, and The Why Files investigates some implications of their outdoor habits. More »