megangibson+FollowWhy Mosquitoes Are Targeting Us MoreDid you know mosquitoes are biting humans way more now? Scientists in Brazil found that as forests shrink and animals disappear, mosquitoes are running out of options and turning to us for their next meal. This means a higher risk of catching diseases like dengue and Zika. Basically, the less wildlife around, the more we’re on the menu. Time to double up on bug spray! #Science #mosquitoes #biodiversity40Share
megangibson+Follow5 Wild New Species Just Discovered!Scientists are still finding wild new creatures on Earth! 2025 brought us a climate-hero sea cow from Qatar, a tiny marsupial in the Andes, a sneaky spider in California, a smiley deep-sea snailfish, and even toads in Tanzania that give birth to live babies. Each one’s got a wild backstory and shows how much more there is to explore (and protect) on our planet. Which one’s your fave? #Science #NewSpecies #Biodiversity10Share
Michael Flores+FollowKilimanjaro’s Shocking Biodiversity LossMount Kilimanjaro just dropped a bombshell: nearly 75% of its native plant species are gone, but climate change isn’t the main villain here. Researchers found that land use changes—think farming, overgrazing, and population growth—are actually the top culprit. Non-native plants are taking over, and it’s messing with local wildlife, food, and even people’s health. The silver lining? Traditional homegardens could help bring the mountain’s ecosystem back to life. Wild, right? #Science #Kilimanjaro #Biodiversity00Share
Richard Vaughan+FollowAssam’s wetlands shine with rare bird sightingWhite-breasted waterhens have made a surprise appearance in Assam’s Bajali wetlands, and locals are buzzing about what this means for the area’s natural health. Spotting these striking birds isn’t just a treat for birdwatchers—it’s a real sign that the wetlands are thriving. These birds help keep the ecosystem balanced by eating insects and snails, so their presence is a win for biodiversity. Wetlands like these don’t just support wildlife; they also help purify water and protect us from floods. What do you think—are we doing enough to protect special places like this in our own communities? #Science #Assam #Biodiversity210Share
megangibson+FollowCalifornia’s hidden beach spider shocks scientistsA brand new species of trapdoor spider has been living right under our feet on California’s beaches, and scientists say it’s more genetically unique than humans are from chimpanzees! Aptostichus ramirezae, as it’s now called, was only just discovered in the sand dunes, despite its close resemblance to a common local spider. These spiders are vital for keeping insect populations in check and can live for decades—some up to 43 years! But with rising sea levels threatening their habitat, this discovery is a reminder of how much we still have to learn and protect in our own backyards. What other local wildlife surprises might we be missing? #Science #CaliforniaWildlife #Biodiversity20Share
Patrick Simmons+FollowColombia’s Spiky New Mystery MammalWild science alert: researchers just ID’d a brand new porcupine species in Colombia! Meet Coendou vossi—a 2-foot, tree-climbing, quill-covered mammal that’s been hiding in plain sight. For years, it was mistaken for a common cousin, but after digging through museum drawers and blurry trail cam pics, scientists proved it’s totally unique. Its spiny tail and secretive habits make it super hard to spot, but it’s a big deal for biodiversity. Who knew forests still had surprises like this? #Science #wildlife #biodiversity00Share
Richard Vaughan+FollowDeep-Sea Mining Uncovers Wild New SpeciesImagine sending a mining robot 13,000 feet underwater and stumbling on a whole bunch of never-before-seen creatures! That’s what just happened in the Pacific. Scientists found tons of new species, but also saw a 30% drop in biodiversity where the mining machine rolled through. It’s a reminder that we barely know what’s down there—and we need to be super careful before we start scooping up metals from the ocean floor. #Science #DeepSeaDiscovery #Biodiversity94Share