A Startling Plan To Save Spotted Owls—From Barred Owls
To save spotted owls in the Pacific Northwest, one plan suggests killing thousands of barred owls. Conservationists and activists are at odds.
Can A Microbe Conservation Movement Take Off?
Microbes make up about 99% of all species, but they’re not part of any global conservation plans. One group is trying to change that.
How To Tap Into The Hidden Histories Of Rocks
Geologist Anjana Khatwa explains how embracing wonder and awe adds to our scientific understanding of the rocks that form our planet.
Fingernails And Indigestion At The 2025 Ig Nobel Prizes
The Ig Nobel Prizes celebrate unusual scientific research—this year including lizard pizza preferences and fingernail growth.
Why Is Working Out Good For Your Mental Health?
In a conversation from August, two exercise researchers discuss what physical activity does to mental health—from boosting to straining it.
Everything You Never Knew About Squash And Pumpkins
It’s squash, pumpkin, and gourd season. In a conversation from 2023, an expert answers listener questions about these colorful fall favorites.
Where Does Plastic And Other Trash Go After We Throw It Away?
In a conversation from February, a journalist discusses the afterlife of our trash, and why most “recyclable” plastic actually isn’t.
‘A Many-Headed Beast’: Telling The Story Of Cancer
Science writer and oncologist Siddhartha Mukherjee discusses what we get wrong about cancer, and why he leans into nuance as an author.
African Grey Parrots Are Popular—And It’s Fueling Illegal Trade
Talkative African grey parrots are charismatic internet stars. A global scramble to source and sell the birds threatens their survival.
Attention, Trivia Nerds! It’s A Food Science Fact Feast
Flora and “Part-Time Genius” co-host Mangesh Hattikudur put one lucky listener to the test with food science trivia.