Nature
From the tiniest single-celled organisms to the giants that roam the Earth, the animal kingdom is one that fascinates us all. Every day we learn more about the creatures we share the planet with, all 1.5 million-plus of them, and that's just the ones we have discovered so far. Whether we keep them as pets, eat them for food or study them for science, our relationship with animals is complex, but is part of the very nature of what makes us human.
These mind-bending biological superpowers let birds fly for 11 days without food
Tiny birds can cross continents, but where do they find the energy?
This bizarre optical illusion could teach us how animals think
By seeing which animals fall for a classic visual trick, scientists are uncovering how different brains make sense of the world
This deadly snake was filmed using its spider-shaped tail as bait
The spider-tailed snake has a bulbous tip on its tail, fringed by long scales that make it look like a spider
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Can animals play video games?
From dolphins to pigs: Inside the surprising world of nature's gamers
Only 1% of the world is eating a healthy and sustainable diet, major report finds
Eating healthier diets could transform the food system to be kinder on the planet and improve human lives around the globe
We finally know why men don’t live as long as women, say scientists
Males that spend less energy on sex and more on raising their children tend to live longer
This ancient blue-blooded sea creature has saved countless human lives
But now the race is on to save them from extinction
Can plants count?
Plants can't count exactly like humans do, but scientists agree that they're capable of some very clever things
Is there anything on Earth that could withstand conditions on Mars?
Scientists have conducted a variety of experiments to find out what, if anything, could survive the harsh conditions of Mars
The truth about Borneo's 'vampire squirrel' - and its massive tail
Meet the tufted ground squirrel of Borneo, which has been said to gorge on the hearts and livers of deer and chickens
Why do dogs love to play with trash?
Just like wild wolves, our pampered pups can enjoy playing in and with the foulest-smelling stuff
We may soon know how to stop dogs ageing, and humans could be next
Cutting-edge anti-ageing advances could extend your dog’s lifespan – and help sniff out the secrets to human longevity too
Can animals get drunk?
The natural world is one big pub, with alcohol on tap from fermented fruits, sap and nectar. Different animals have different tolerance levels
Here’s how to tell if your dog actually loves you, according to science
Your dog is so pleased to see you when you get home. Then again, that’s also when you feed them. So does your dog see you as their best friend or merely a food delivery system?
Ocean water could now corrode shark teeth at alarming rate, study suggests
“They’re highly developed weapons built for cutting flesh, not resisting ocean acid"
Cats v dogs: Here’s who’s smarter, according to science
In the ultimate pet showdown, we size up the cerebral powers of our favourite furry friends.
8 (very very cute) facts about cats, according to science
Curiosity won't kill these cats
Why do cats get the zoomies after pooping?
The science behind 'poophoria'.
Cats get dementia too. And they might be the key to new human treatments
New research has found that our feline friends develop dementia in a similar way to human Alzheimer’s Disease, opening the door to further research
6 simple ways to instantly improve your dog’s life, according to science
What's the way to your dog's heart? A steak? A permanent place on the sofa? On open car window to lean out of during a long drive?
Some (very adorable) whales and dolphins were caught forming unlikely friendships
Their interactions are rarely studied, but it turns out whales and dolphins actually get along swimmingly – even if one side’s keener than the other
The (completely adorable) ways dogs know exactly how you’re feeling
Ever get the feeling your dog knows what you’re thinking? It might be because they’re picking up on cues you didn’t realise you were transmitting.
This ingenious new invention could mean the end of palm oil
This alternative could protect forests and reduce greenhouse gases, from products small suburban breweries
Bigger dinosaurs didn’t always have stronger bites, surprising new study finds
You probably still wouldn’t want to come face to face with them, though