Analysis of animal bones recovered from a 16th-century Spanish shipwreck off the coast of Florida reveals the presence of a house cat, likely brought over as a pet. This discovery pushes back the estimated arrival of domesticated cats in what is now the United States by nearly a century, suggesting Europeans introduced them much earlier than previously thought. The cat's remains indicate it was smaller than typical European wildcats, supporting the idea it was a domesticated companion animal rather than a working cat used for pest control on the ship.
Pets for Cursor is a simple web app that adds a small animated pet to follow your mouse cursor around the screen. Choose from a variety of animals, including a cat, dog, duck, and hamster, each with their own unique walking animation. The project is open-source and easily customizable, allowing users to add their own pets by providing a sprite sheet. It's a fun, lightweight way to personalize your browsing experience.
The Hacker News comments on "Show HN: Pets for Cursor" are generally positive and intrigued by the project. Several commenters express interest in trying it out or appreciate the novelty. Some suggest improvements like different pet options, customizable animations, and the ability to toggle the pet on/off. A few commenters raise potential downsides, such as the pet being distracting or interfering with clicking. One commenter notes the similarity to a previous project called "Cursorcerer," which was received favorably by their team. Overall, the comments indicate that while a simple idea, "Pets for Cursor" has sparked interest and discussion around its potential utility and entertainment value.
The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing over the 101 freeway in Los Angeles has reached a major milestone with the completion of its bridge structure. This project, the world's largest wildlife crossing, aims to provide safe passage for mountain lions and other animals, connecting fragmented habitats and promoting genetic diversity. While the bridge itself is finished, significant work remains, including landscaping with native vegetation and installing sound walls and fencing to guide animals toward the crossing. Funding also needs to be secured for ongoing maintenance and monitoring to evaluate the crossing's effectiveness.
HN commenters largely praised the wildlife crossing project, viewing it as a positive step towards mitigating human impact on animal populations and ecosystems. Some expressed hope that it would serve as a model for similar projects elsewhere. A few questioned the long-term effectiveness and pointed to the need for more comprehensive habitat restoration, arguing that crossings alone wouldn't fully address the root issues of habitat fragmentation. Some discussion also revolved around the types of animals expected to use the crossing and how its success would be measured. One commenter highlighted the project's funding model, emphasizing the significant private contribution which they found encouraging. There was a brief exchange about the potential for increased roadkill on smaller nearby roads due to animals funneling through the crossing.
This Mister Rogers' Neighborhood episode explores the world of computers and how they work. Mr. Rogers visits a computer lab and learns about inputting information using punch cards and a keyboard. He demonstrates how computers process information and produce output, emphasizing that they only do what they're programmed to do. Connecting this to emotions, he highlights that feelings are valid even if a computer can't process them, and encourages viewers to express their own feelings creatively, whether through drawing or talking. The episode also features a segment with François Clemmons making a clay mouse, reinforcing the theme of creativity and contrasting handmade art with computer-generated output.
Hacker News users discuss the Mister Rogers episode about computers and mice, praising its gentle introduction to technology for children. Several commenters highlight the episode's emphasis on the human element of computing, showcasing how people program the machines and how computers ultimately serve human needs. The nostalgic value of the episode is also a recurring theme, with many users fondly recalling their childhood experiences watching Mister Rogers. Some commenters delve into technical details, discussing early computer graphics and the evolution of input devices, contrasting them with modern technology. Others appreciate the episode's broader message of accepting new and potentially intimidating things, a lesson applicable beyond just technology. A few users also share personal anecdotes about their early introductions to computers, inspired by the episode's themes.
A new model suggests dogs may have self-domesticated, drawn to human settlements by access to discarded food scraps. This theory proposes that bolder, less aggressive wolves were more likely to approach humans and scavenge, gaining a selective advantage. Over generations, this preference for readily available "snacks" from human waste piles, along with reduced fear of humans, could have gradually led to the evolution of the domesticated dog. The model focuses on how food availability influenced wolf behavior and ultimately drove the domestication process without direct human intervention in early stages.
Hacker News users discussed the "self-domestication" hypothesis, with some skeptical of the model's simplicity and the assumption that wolves were initially aggressive scavengers. Several commenters highlighted the importance of interspecies communication, specifically wolves' ability to read human cues, as crucial to the domestication process. Others pointed out the potential for symbiotic relationships beyond mere scavenging, suggesting wolves might have offered protection or assisted in hunting. The idea of "survival of the friendliest," not just the fittest, also emerged as a key element in the discussion. Some users also drew parallels to other animals exhibiting similar behaviors, such as cats and foxes, furthering the discussion on the broader implications of self-domestication. A few commenters mentioned the known genetic differences between domesticated dogs and wolves related to starch digestion, supporting the article's premise.
The author recounts their experience creating a Mii of their cat on their Wii, a process complicated by the limited customization options. They struggle to capture their cat's unique features, ultimately settling on a close-enough approximation. Despite the imperfections, the digital feline brings them joy, serving as a constant, albeit pixelated, companion on their television screen. The experience highlights the simple pleasures found in creative expression, even within the constraints of a limited platform, and the affectionate bond between pet and owner reflected in the desire to recreate their likeness.
Hacker News users generally found the story of the author's cat, Mii, to be heartwarming and relatable. Several commenters shared their own experiences of deep bonds with their pets, echoing the author's sentiments about the unique comfort and companionship animals provide. Some appreciated the author's simple, honest writing style, while others focused on the bittersweet nature of pet ownership, acknowledging the inevitable grief that comes with losing a beloved animal. A few comments humorously related to the cat's name, connecting it to the Nintendo Wii, and some questioned the veracity of certain details, suggesting parts of the story felt embellished. Overall, the discussion was positive and empathetic, highlighting the shared experience of pet love and loss.
Diamond Geezer investigates the claim that the most central sheep in London resides at the Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) grounds. He determines the geographic center of London using mean, median, and geometric center calculations based on the city's boundary. While the HAC sheep are remarkably central, lying very close to several calculated centers, they aren't definitively the most central. Further analysis using what he deems the "fairest" method—a center-of-mass calculation considering population density—places the likely "most central sheep" slightly east, near the Barbican. However, without precise sheep locations within the Barbican area and considering the inherent complexities of defining "London," the HAC sheep remain strong contenders for the title.
HN users generally enjoyed the lighthearted puzzle presented in the linked blog post. Several commenters discussed different interpretations of "central," leading to suggestions of alternative locations and methods for calculating centrality. Some proposed using the centroid of London's shape, while others considered population density or accessibility via public transport. A few users pointed out the ambiguity of "London" itself, questioning whether it referred to the City of London, Greater London, or another definition. At least one commenter expressed appreciation for the blog author's clear writing style and engaging presentation of the problem. The overall tone is one of amusement and intellectual curiosity, with users enjoying the thought experiment.
Rafael Araujo creates stunning hand-drawn geometrical illustrations of nature, blending art, mathematics, and biology. His intricate works meticulously depict the Golden Ratio and Fibonacci sequence found in natural forms like butterflies, shells, and flowers. Using only compass, ruler, and pencil, Araujo spends hundreds of hours on each piece, resulting in mesmerizing visualizations of complex mathematical principles within the beauty of the natural world. His work showcases both the inherent order and aesthetic elegance found in nature's design.
HN users were generally impressed with Araujo's work, describing it as "stunning," "beautiful," and "mind-blowing." Some questioned the practicality of the golden ratio's influence, suggesting it's overstated and a form of "sacred geometry" pseudoscience. Others countered, emphasizing the golden ratio's genuine mathematical properties and its aesthetic appeal, regardless of deeper meaning. A few comments focused on the tools and techniques Araujo might have used, mentioning potential software like Cinderella and GeoGebra, and appreciating the dedication required for such intricate hand-drawn pieces. There was also discussion of the intersection of art, mathematics, and nature, with some users drawing connections to biological forms and patterns.
Greenland sharks, inhabiting the frigid Arctic waters, are the longest-lived vertebrates known to science, potentially reaching lifespans of over 400 years. Radiocarbon dating of their eye lenses revealed this astonishing longevity. Their slow growth rate, late sexual maturity (around 150 years old), and the cold, deep-sea environment contribute to their extended lives. While their diet remains somewhat mysterious, they are known scavengers and opportunistic hunters, consuming fish, seals, and even polar bears. Their flesh contains a neurotoxin that causes "shark drunk" when consumed, historically making it useful for sled dog food after a detoxification process. The Greenland shark's exceptional longevity provides a unique window into past centuries and offers scientists opportunities to study aging and long-term environmental changes.
HN commenters discuss the Greenland shark's incredibly long lifespan, with several expressing fascination and awe. Some question the accuracy of the age determination methods, particularly radiocarbon dating, while others delve into the implications of such a long life for understanding aging and evolution. A few commenters mention other long-lived organisms, like certain trees and clams, for comparison. The potential impacts of climate change on these slow-growing, long-lived creatures are also raised as a concern. Several users share additional information about the shark's biology and behavior, including its slow movement, unusual diet, and symbiotic relationship with bioluminescent copepods. Finally, some commenters note the article's vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling.
While squirrels are typically known for their herbivorous diet of nuts and seeds, recent observations and studies have confirmed that they also consume meat. Documented instances include squirrels preying on small animals like birds, snakes, and insects, sometimes even engaging in cannibalism. This carnivorous behavior, though surprising to some, is not entirely new and is likely driven by nutritional needs, especially protein scarcity during certain times of the year. These findings highlight the adaptable nature of squirrels and their broader role within the ecosystem.
Several Hacker News commenters point out that squirrels eating meat isn't novel or surprising. Many share personal anecdotes of observing squirrels consuming meat, including baby birds, roadkill, and even leftover chicken wings. Some highlight that squirrels are rodents, and rodents are opportunistic omnivores, so this behavior is expected. A few commenters criticize Gizmodo's reporting, suggesting the headline is sensationalized and misleading. Others discuss the adaptability of squirrels and their ability to thrive in various environments, with their diet reflecting available resources. Finally, some users humorously compare squirrels' opportunistic eating habits to their own scavenging for leftovers.
Summary of Comments ( 39 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43914807
Hacker News users discuss the implications of a cat skeleton found on a 16th-century Spanish shipwreck off the coast of Florida, considered the earliest evidence of domesticated cats in the US. Several commenters question whether the cat was truly a "pet" or simply a ship's cat used for rodent control, highlighting the difficulty of determining the animal's exact role centuries later. Some discuss the history of cats in the Americas, suggesting earlier, undocumented introductions are possible. Others express skepticism about the "earliest known" claim, pointing to the potential for earlier, undiscovered remains. A few humorous comments lament the lack of internet access for the feline passenger and imagine its shipboard adventures. Overall, the discussion centers on the ambiguity surrounding the cat's purpose and the challenges of definitively labeling it a "pet" based on limited archaeological evidence.
The Hacker News post discussing the Smithsonian Magazine article about early pet cats in the US has a moderate number of comments, sparking a conversation primarily focused on the history and nature of cats as pets.
Several commenters delve into the historical context. One points out the long-standing debate on whether cats were truly domesticated in ancient Egypt or even earlier, questioning the article's claim about the "earliest known pet cats." They highlight the difference between "ship's cats" (used for pest control) and true "pets," suggesting that the cats on the shipwreck might fall into the former category. This distinction between working animals and companion animals becomes a recurring theme. Another commenter supports this idea by sharing a historical anecdote about cats being brought onto ships to manage rodent populations, indicating this was a common practice long before the mentioned shipwreck.
Building on the "ship's cat" versus "pet" discussion, another commenter emphasizes the independent nature of cats, suggesting that even cats brought aboard for practical purposes might have developed affectionate bonds with the crew. They propose that the line between working animal and pet can be blurry, especially with animals like cats.
One commenter focuses on the genetic aspect, speculating on the lineage of these early American cats and wondering if they contributed to the modern American cat population. They express interest in whether any genetic studies have been conducted to trace the ancestry of these shipwrecked cats.
A couple of comments offer humorous takes. One jokingly questions the cats' immigration status, while another playfully suggests that the cats were the true "discoverers" of America, predating human colonization.
Finally, one commenter expresses skepticism about the certainty of identifying the cat remains as definitively belonging to "pets" rather than simply cats present on the ship. They advocate for caution in interpreting historical findings and emphasize the need for strong evidence before drawing definitive conclusions.
In essence, the comments section explores the nuances of cat domestication, the practical roles of cats on ships, and the difficulty of definitively labeling historical animals as "pets." The discussion highlights the complex relationship between humans and cats throughout history and the ongoing debate surrounding the true nature of their early interactions.