As the coronavirus pandemic brings about global lockdown and people are being forced to stay within the confines of their homes, various livestreams are surging in popularity.
There are various museums offering virtual tours and walks through magnificent national parks guided by experienced rangers. The latest livestream allows you to stream the Northern Lights straight from a webcam located in Churchill, Manitoba, Canada.
‘Welcome to nature’s most amazing light show,’ the feed’s description says. ‘Located at the Churchill Northern Studies Center in Churchill, Manitoba, this live cam is located directly underneath the aurora oval — one of the best places on earth to watch the aurora borealis, the spectacular atmospheric phenomenon better known as the Northern Lights.’
The page on which the feed is located also lets people know that late winter and early spring (the Northern Hemisphere is experiencing spring right now) are among the best times to view the aurora.
Image: Wikipedia Commons
STAY UPDATED
Join our community of keen travellers, wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Volcano Erupts In Indonesia: More Than 11,000 Evacuated
April 19, 2024
Rising from the Depths: The Volcanic Agitation of Mount Ruang
In the quiet darkness of a Tuesday night in North Sulawesi Province, Indonesia, the earth reminded everyone of its fiery core as Mount Ruang erupted, catapulting ash and smoke over two kilometers into the sky.
This dramatic spectacle marked the beginning of a series of eruptions that would see more than 11,000 residents hastily evacuating under the cloak of uncertainty and ash.
The Awakening Giant
Mount Ruang, a 725-meter colossus, is no stranger to the limelight, having etched its power in the history books with a catastrophic eruption in 1871 that triggered a tsunami. This week’s activity began at 9:45 PM local time, with the volcano asserting its might in a display that lit up the night sky with billowing smoke and cascading lava flows that painted the dark waters a glowing red.
Local authorities, quick to respond, escalated the alert level to four—the highest possible—while expanding the exclusion zone from four kilometers to six. Abdul Muhari, head of the disaster agency’s data communications and information centre, underscored the urgency of the situation, noting that everyone within this newly defined danger zone had to move to safer grounds immediately.
A Community on the Move
The initial exodus saw over 800 individuals relocate to Tagulandang Island, with subsequent eruptions necessitating further evacuations to the provincial capital, Manado.
The logistics of moving thousands in the face of an ongoing natural disaster are daunting. Yet, the community's resilience and the coordinated efforts of local authorities have painted a picture of determination and solidarity.
The Broader Impact
The eruptions have not only disrupted lives but also air travel. The spread of volcanic ash led to the temporary closure of Sam Ratulangi International Airport, a crucial hub with links to China, Singapore, and South Korea. Flights from Kota Kinabalu International Airport in Malaysia also faced significant disruptions, emphasizing the far-reaching impacts of such natural events.
Important Travel Update:
— Malaysia Airlines (@MAS) April 18, 2024
Malaysia Airlines has suspended several flights to/from KL International Airport (KUL) to Sabah and Sarawak today, 18 April 2024 due to the volcanic eruption at Mount Ruang, Indonesia.
Our priority is your safety. We're closely monitoring the situation…
A Geological Hotspot
Indonesia's geographic positioning on the 'Ring of Fire'—a major area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean where many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur—makes it a hotspot for seismic and volcanic activity. The country hosts 120 active volcanoes, and the memory of the 2018 Anak Krakatoa eruption, which claimed hundreds of lives, is still fresh.
Reflecting on Nature’s Might
The ongoing situation at Mount Ruang is a stark reminder of the dynamic and sometimes perilous nature of our planet. As scientists and authorities work to monitor and respond to these geological events, the resilience of the affected communities continues to be tested. The eruptions serve as both a spectacle of nature’s raw beauty and a call to respect and prepare for its potential fury.
In the face of such overwhelming natural power, the spirit of the people in North Sulawesi is a testament to human resilience. The coming days will undoubtedly be challenging, but also a chance for collective learning and adaptation in the shadow of one of nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomena.
The Weather and Climate in Paris – What To Do All Year
April 18, 2024
Imagine strolling down the Seine, with the Eiffel Tower peeking out from behind autumn leaves or gleaming under the bright summer sun. Welcome to Paris, a city that doesn't just change with the seasons—it transforms.
Every corner, every café, and every cobblestoned street tells a different story depending on whether it's wrapped in the warmth of July or the crisp frost of January.
This guide isn't just about navigating Paris's ever-changing weather; it's about diving headfirst into the city's vibrant life, no matter the season.
Paris's climate is as varied as its culture, with each season painting the city in a new light. Spring breathes life into the city's gardens, summer fills the air with festive tunes, fall drapes Paris in romantic hues, and winter lights it up in festive glory.
But what do you do in Paris all year round? That's the golden question, especially for the urban adventurer under 30, looking to explore beyond the typical tourist trails.
This guide is your insider’s handbook to Paris, crafted to infuse your journey with that je ne sais quoi that makes this city so irresistible. From spring's first café terraces to winter's cozy museum dives, we've got you covered.
So, if you're looking to experience the authentic heartbeat of Paris—its festivals, its hidden nooks, its culinary delights, and yes, its unpredictable weather—you're in the right place.
The Parisian Palette: A Seasonal Overview
Paris, with its ever-changing face, offers a unique charm that shifts with the seasons. It's a city where the weather isn't just a backdrop but a central character in its day-to-day drama.
Understanding the climate in Paris is the first step to unlocking its treasures, ensuring you're ready to join the scene at any time of the year.
Spring in Paris: Renewal and Café Terraces
Spring in Paris (March to May) is a rebirth, a city shaking off the winter chills and blooming in full spectacle. The temperatures gently rise, but it's the city's mood that truly warms up.
Sidewalk café terraces become the stages for people-watching, as Parisians emerge from their winter hideaways to bask in the mild sun. This is the season when the gardens of Paris, from the grand Jardin des Tuileries to the intimate Jardin du Luxembourg, don their most vibrant colors.
It's also a prime time for art lovers and flâneurs alike, with the Nuit des Musées offering a night-long celebration of culture. Packing for spring? Think layers, as the Paris climate chart for spring reveals a pleasant but sometimes unpredictable range of temperatures.
Summer in Paris: Sunshine and Festivals
As the calendar flips to June, Paris transitions into full summer mode (June to August), with long, sun-drenched days and an atmosphere charged with energy. The Paris weather forecast might warn of the occasional rain shower, but it hardly dims the vibrant street festivals, open-air concerts, and picnics along the Seine.
Summer in Paris is a time to celebrate, from the Fête de la Musique that fills every corner with sound to Bastille Day fireworks that light up the sky. It's also the season of leisurely explorations, whether you're cruising down the Seine or seeking out the coolest rooftop bars for a view of the city skyline.
Lightweight clothing and a versatile scarf (for those cooler evenings) should be first on your packing list.
Fall in Paris: Romantic Hues and Cultural Awakening
Fall (September to November) brings a sophisticated air to Paris, draping it in golden hues and a slightly slower pace. The weather remains mild, with crisp mornings and warm afternoons, perfect for wandering through Paris's open-air markets or discovering a new favorite café.
The cultural calendar reignites, with events like the Paris Autumn Festival showcasing the arts in all their forms. Fall is also an excellent time for wine lovers to explore, with harvest festivals and tastings celebrating France's rich viniculture.
When packing, lean towards comfortable layers that can transition from a sunny afternoon to a brisk evening.
Winter in Paris: Festive Lights and Indoor Exploration
Winter in Paris (December to February) wraps the city in a festive blanket, with Christmas lights adorning the streets and a palpable excitement in the air. Despite the chill, or perhaps because of it, there's a cozy charm to the city.
Christmas markets, mulled wine, and the chance to celebrate New Year's Eve in one of the most beautiful cities in the world make it a magical time to visit.
Indoors, Paris offers warmth in its world-class museums, galleries, and cafés, inviting you to while away the hours with a good book or a thought-provoking exhibit. Winter packing essentials include a warm coat, a stylish hat, and, of course, an umbrella for those snowy or rainy days.
A Month-by-Month Journey Through Paris
Embarking on a Parisian adventure requires more than just a sense of wanderlust; it demands a keen understanding of what each month brings. Let’s traverse the calendar, discovering the city’s heart and soul from January’s crisp beginnings to December’s festive cheer.
January: New Beginnings and Festive Lights
The year in Paris starts with a sparkle, literally, as the festive lights from the holiday season linger a little into January. It’s a quiet time, perfect for visiting museums without the crowds or catching the final days of the winter sales. Don’t miss the chance to sip on a hot chocolate in a quintessential Parisian café to ward off the chill.
February: Romance and Indoor Wonders
As the city of love, Paris in February is a cliché that’s absolutely worth embracing. Valentine’s Day offers the perfect excuse for a romantic boat cruise on the Seine or a cozy dinner in Montmartre. The weather might invite you indoors, where you can explore the treasures of the Louvre or the modern marvels in the Centre Pompidou.
March: The Breath of Spring
March sees the tentative return of warmer weather. Parisians slowly populate the terraces of cafés, and the parks begin to fill with color. It’s an ideal time for leisurely walks and witnessing the city come back to life. The Paris Marathon also takes place in April, drawing runners and spectators from around the globe.
April: Blossoms and Celebrations
April in Paris is all about blossoms and mild weather, making it a photographer’s dream. The city’s parks, especially the Jardin des Plantes, are in full bloom. Easter celebrations bring a festive air, and outdoor markets start to buzz with activity once more.
May: A Cultural Awakening
May bursts with cultural activities. From museum nights where institutions open their doors for free, to numerous outdoor events taking advantage of the pleasant weather. It’s the unofficial start of picnic season, with Parisians flocking to the banks of the Canal Saint-Martin and the Champ de Mars.
June: Summer Vibes and Music
June kicks off the summer with music festivals, including the Fête de la Musique, where every street corner, park, and bar hosts live performances. It’s a time of celebration, long days, and warm nights. Pride Month also brings vibrant parades and parties to the city.
July: Bastille Day and Open-air Cinema
July is synonymous with Bastille Day, featuring spectacular fireworks at the Eiffel Tower. The warm evenings are perfect for the open-air cinema at Parc de la Villette, where you can catch a movie under the stars.
August: Quiet Streets and River Seine Adventures
With many Parisians on vacation, August offers a quieter, more laid-back version of the city. It’s the perfect time to enjoy less crowded museums and slower, more personal service at cafés. Don’t miss the Paris Plages, where the banks of the River Seine transform into makeshift beaches.
September: Cultural Renaissance and Wine Harvests
As summer fades, the cultural season heats up with the European Heritage Days, offering free access to many sites normally closed to the public. The wine harvest season begins, bringing with it the opportunity to taste France’s newest vintages.
October: Autumn’s Canvas and Halloween
October paints Paris in stunning shades of orange and red, making it a fantastic month for photography, especially in the Buttes-Chaumont and Montsouris parks. Halloween is increasingly celebrated, with themed events and parties across the city.
November: The Quiet Charm
November’s chill brings a quieter charm to Paris, with the Paris Photo fair attracting photography enthusiasts and the start of the Christmas market preparations, hinting at the festive season to come.
December: Festive Magic
December in Paris is all about the magic of the holiday season. Christmas markets, like those at Les Halles and along the Champs-Élysées, offer festive treats and gifts. The city is alight with decorations, making evening walks particularly enchanting. New Year’s Eve sees spectacular celebrations, with the Champs-Élysées becoming the focal point for ringing in the new year.
Practical Paris: Weather-Related Travel Tips
Embarking on a Parisian journey, armed with a month-by-month itinerary, is like holding a key to an ever-changing city. But to truly unlock Paris in all its glory, understanding how to navigate its weather is crucial.
Here’s how to make the Parisian climate work for you, ensuring every moment in the City of Light is as comfortable as it is enchanting.
Packing Smart for Parisian Weather
The first rule of thumb for visiting Paris is to pack layers. The city's weather can be unpredictable, with sunny mornings turning into rainy afternoons. Essentials include a versatile jacket, comfortable walking shoes for those cobblestone streets, and an umbrella that fits easily into your day bag.
For the fashion-conscious, a scarf is not just a stylish accessory but a Parisian staple that can easily adjust to changing temperatures.
Adapting to Seasonal Changes
- Spring: While the city blooms and terraces start to fill, spring evenings can still be cool. A light jacket or cardigan will be your best friend.
- Summer: The Parisian summer can be warm, occasionally veering into the hot territory. Lightweight, breathable fabrics work best, and don’t forget sunglasses and a hat to protect against the sun.
- Fall: As the leaves change, so should your wardrobe. Layering is key as temperatures drop. An all-weather coat will serve you well against both the chill and occasional showers.
- Winter: The cold can be biting, especially when wind sweeps through the Haussmannian boulevards. Warm coats, gloves, and a wool hat are essentials. Don’t underestimate the power of a good pair of waterproof boots, either.
Staying Comfortable While Exploring
The best way to experience Paris is on foot, which means comfortable footwear is a must. Break in new shoes before your trip to avoid blisters.
Paris is also well-serviced by public transportation, so familiarize yourself with the Metro and bus routes to give your feet a break when needed.
Embracing the Weather
Rain in Paris isn't just common; it's a part of the city's charm. Instead of letting a drizzly forecast dampen your spirits, use it as an opportunity to explore Paris's numerous museums, galleries, and covered passages.
Cafés are perfect refuges from the rain, inviting you to sit back with a café au lait and watch the world go by.
Maximizing Daylight
Daylight varies significantly throughout the year, from short days in the winter to almost endless light in the summer.
Plan your itinerary to make the most of the daylight, keeping indoor activities for early or late hours during the longer days of summer, and saving outdoor adventures for the brightest hours in winter.
Keeping an Eye on the Weather Forecast
Parisian weather can be fickle, and a sunny morning doesn’t guarantee a clear afternoon.
Checking the weather forecast daily can help you plan your outfits and activities, ensuring you’re never caught off guard by a sudden change.
Hunting For The ‘Extinct’ Indonesian Tiger In Indonesia
April 18, 2024
The Quest for the Javan Tiger: A Glimmer of Hope in Indonesia
In the lush, verdant wilderness of West Java, Indonesia, a remarkable and potentially groundbreaking discovery has rekindled hope for a species long thought to be extinct: the Javan tiger.
The news broke following an intriguing study conducted by Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) and published by Cambridge University Press. It centered on a single strand of tiger hair found in 2019, snagged on a fence near Sukabumi city.
This finding has spurred a nation-wide hunt, leveraging camera traps and DNA sweeps, to uncover whether the Javan tiger still prowls the Indonesian forests.
The hair, with genetic markers pointing to the Javan tiger, presents a thrilling scientific mystery. According to the research, local resident Ripi Yanur Fajar first noted the hair along with footprints and claw marks at a plantation.
This evidence has not only captured the imagination of the local community but also mobilized the country's environmental efforts.
Satyawan Pudyatmoko, a ministry official overseeing conservation, emphasized the cautious optimism permeating the scientific community, stating, "The research has sparked speculation that the Javan tiger is still in the wild."
The Conservation Conundrum
The potential rediscovery of the Javan tiger is not just a scientific curiosity—it's a conservation imperative. The Javan and Balinese tigers were declared extinct in the 1980s and 1940s, respectively, victims of relentless poaching and habitat destruction.
Today, only the Sumatran tigers remain, with fewer than 400 individuals in the wild, as estimated by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The survival of the Javan tiger could signify not only a miraculous beat against extinction but also a critical new chapter in Indonesia's environmental policy.
However, this pursuit is fraught with challenges. Muhammad Ali Imron, head of the WWF Indonesia’s forest and wildlife program, expressed concerns about publicizing the findings too widely.
The fear is that drawing too much attention might attract poachers, turning a conservation opportunity into a crisis. As such, the balance between excitement for discovery and the practicalities of protecting potentially surviving tigers is delicate.
Reflections on Conservation Efforts
The story of the Javan tiger is a poignant reminder of the fragility of our planet's biodiversity. It underscores the urgent need for robust environmental policies and proactive conservation strategies.
If the Javan tiger does indeed still exist, it will become a symbol of hope and a testament to nature's resilience. But it also underscores the obligations of not only governments but also local communities and international bodies to safeguard these treasures.
The efforts to confirm the existence of the Javan tiger continue, blending hope with scientific rigor. As researchers press on, supported by the Indonesian government and international conservation groups, the story of the Javan tiger could either be a remarkable tale of survival or a somber epitaph for a species lost to history.
Either outcome will undoubtedly shape conservation dialogues globally, reminding us of our enduring responsibility to the natural world.
Source: Al Jazeera
‘Skywalker’ Ape Discovered In Jungles Of Myanmar
April 18, 2024
The Echoes of Survival: The Skywalker Gibbons of Myanmar
In the verdant jungles of Myanmar, a recent discovery has not only expanded our understanding of biodiversity but has also ignited hope for conservationists globally.
The Skywalker gibbons, a species first identified in China in 2017 and named with a nod to the Star Wars saga, have now been confirmed to inhabit the remote forests of Myanmar.
This finding is a critical step in ensuring the survival of a species that mirrors the traits of resilience and uniqueness akin to their cinematic namesake.
Discovery and Identification
The journey to this significant discovery began with acoustic monitoring of the gibbons’ haunting morning songs, a method that allowed researchers to pinpoint their presence without direct visual contact.
This non-invasive technique captures the essence of modern conservation efforts—blending technology with traditional fieldwork.
The use of DNA analysis from discarded plant material further solidified the presence of 44 new groups of Skywalker gibbons in Myanmar, a testament to the meticulous and innovative approaches adopted by the research teams from Fauna & Flora and Nature Conservation Society Myanmar.
READ NEXT: GET TO KNOW THE SPIDER MONKEY
Characteristics and Challenges
Skywalker gibbons (Hoolock tianxing) are distinguished from their close relatives by subtle yet distinct physical differences such as thinner eyebrows and a darker beard, which are not just mere aesthetic details but are adaptive traits honed by evolution.
Despite their enchanting presence, these primates are under siege from an all-too-common enemy: habitat loss. With Myanmar's existing protected areas covering a mere 4% of suitable gibbon habitat, the challenges are daunting.
The forests that cradle these gibbons are vanishing, sliced away by deforestation and degraded by human encroachment.
Conservation Efforts and Future Prospects
The discovery has sparked a broader conservation dialogue, emphasizing the need for a dual approach combining government-led protection with community-based conservation initiatives.
Local communities have shown a willingness to engage, with some expressing interest in establishing community protected areas and launching conservation awareness programs aimed at curbing poaching.
This collaborative spirit is essential, as the preservation of the Skywalker gibbon isn’t just about saving a species but about maintaining the ecological balance they help sustain.
The plight of the Skywalker gibbons serves as a poignant reminder of our intertwined destinies with the natural world. These creatures, with their distinct songs and familial groups, are not just inhabitants of their forests but are custodians of their ecosystems.
Protecting them is a moral imperative that transcends borders and species—a call to action to preserve the rich tapestry of life that, once unraveled, cannot be rewoven.
Source: Discover Wildlife
Silent Swimming Schools Of Fish Are Inspiring Submarine Design
April 18, 2024
Silence Beneath the Waves: How Fish Schools Influence Stealth Technology
In the quiet depths of our oceans, schools of fish exhibit a fascinating natural phenomenon of "acoustic stealth," swimming with such synchrony that they mimic the sound of a single fish rather than a collective.
This remarkable trait, recently studied by engineers at Johns Hopkins University, could revolutionize our approach to submarine and underwater vehicle design, offering a new blueprint for stealth technology in marine engineering.
The Study of Silence
The study, led by Ji Zhou and Rajat Mittal and published in the journal Bioinspiration & Biomimetics, delves deep into the fluid dynamics and biomechanics of bio-locomotion.
Mittal's team, intrigued by the efficiencies and potential advantages of fish swimming in schools, embarked on a quest to understand how these natural formations impact underwater noise—a key factor in predator evasion and environmental interaction.
Using sophisticated 3D models of common mackerel, the researchers simulated various swimming behaviors to observe noise production. Their findings were illuminative: fish, by syncing their tail flaps and swimming closely, could significantly reduce the noise they produce.
This is because sound waves produced by each fish can cancel each other out when synchronized perfectly, much like noise-cancelling headphones work to block external sound.
When fish swim in configurations where their tails move in opposite directions at the same time, they cancel out each other’s sound waves and so are quieter. Credit: Johns Hopkins University
Implications for Underwater Technology
The implications of these findings extend far beyond the natural world. Traditional underwater vehicles, which rely on noisy rotational rotors for propulsion, could see a transformative shift towards quieter, more efficient operations by mimicking these natural movements.
As Mittal explains, “This could lead to the development of underwater vehicles that are both efficient and stealthy, drawing directly from the natural mechanisms evolved by schooling fish.”
The study not only sheds light on the acoustic benefits of synchronized swimming in fish but also opens up a myriad of applications in human technology. Quieter submarines and underwater drones could drastically reduce the ecological footprint of human activity underwater, lessening the disruption to marine life and improving the stealth capabilities of these machines.
A Step Towards Harmonious Technology
Incorporating bio-inspired technologies into modern engineering is a step towards more sustainable and harmonious environmental interactions.
As we continue to explore the depths of our oceans and develop technologies that operate within these realms, lessons from nature, such as those provided by schooling fish, are invaluable.
They remind us that often, the best technological advancements come from observing and emulating the natural world.
The dance of the mackerel, a silent symphony beneath the waves, thus becomes a template for innovation. As we harness these insights, we edge closer to a future where our technologies can seamlessly blend into their surroundings, just as a school of fish blends into the quiet of the deep sea.
This study is a testament to the potential of interdisciplinary research and the unexpected ways in which the mysteries of nature can inspire human ingenuity—pointing us towards quieter, more subtle forms of existence and operation beneath the sea.
Source: Discover Wildlife