Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Miscellaneous Stories

Mockingbird Mischief

I recall a KSMU interview by Mike Smith a few years ago, discussing mockingbird stories.  Someone told about the bird outside their bedroom window that had perfected the sound of their alarm clock, only the bird was set for much earlier than the alarm.  Another bird had learned to mimic the sound of their flushing toilet.
Wonder how and why they develop this talent?  There is more on this in this Freshare.net article.  Or for a concert of their songs, hit this Birdjam site. 

Oaks Farm Bacteria

What do you do if you are an oak tree trying to grow in acidic soil without accessible mineral nutrients?  You might try growing bacteria around your roots that can breakdown inorganic minerals so you can absorb them.  More on this at Freshare.net.