Culture
The Jungle’s Hottest Accessory? Grass Earrings, Darling
Just when you thought humans cornered the market on questionable trends, a troop of wild chimpanzees in Zambia has stepped onto the scene to show us all how it’s done.
Picture this: A young chimp nonchalantly plucking a blade of grass, looping it behind one ear, then strolling around camp as if to say, “Yes, Brenda, it’s called style. Look it up.”
Researchers recently spotted dozens of chimps donning these grassy adornments. Some tuck the grass behind their ears like a makeshift pencil, while others dangle it artfully in a kind of jungle-chic statement piece. Scientists believe this behavior isn’t about function - nobody’s brushing crumbs off their fur - but about signaling status, forging bonds, or just plain showing off.
In human terms, it’s a little like when your friend starts wearing a velvet scrunchie, and suddenly the whole group has one. The chimps aren’t following a practical fad - they’re creating culture in real time (and teaching us fashion for a really good price).
And that’s what makes this so remarkable. These clever primates are reminding us that fashion isn’t about necessity. It’s about belonging, expression, and perhaps even a hint of mischief. Next time you feel silly trying out a new look, remember that somewhere in Zambia, a chimp is rocking grass behind his ear, and he absolutely does not care if you approve.
Carry on, trendsetters. I need to go to my backyard to finish my outfit for today.
Disassociate and anticipate
Make believe: Won’t you be mine
Ticking: Let’s go, already
Shock: I’ll watch for the face next time
What’s Wrong With Your Dog?
Your Dog Ate What? The Chew Before You Knew
If you think your dog’s most shocking habit is stealing a sandwich, think again. Around the world, veterinarians are reporting a wild surge in dogs gobbling up the most questionable “snacks” you can imagine.
We’re talking socks. Stones. Entire stuffed toys. And, in one eyebrow-raising case, a full meter of fake grass. Yes, artificial turf: the all-you-can-eat buffet no one asked for.
Vets say these impromptu taste tests are landing curious pups on the operating table nearly every day. In fact, some clinics handle three foreign object emergencies daily. Puppies lead the charge because why wouldn’t you sample a sock if you’ve already tried your own tail?
Most dogs don’t have a vendetta against your shoe collection (though it can feel personal). They explore the world with their mouths, and sometimes curiosity tips into, well… enthusiastic ingestion. Swallowing can the wrong thing can cause life-threatening blockages that require emergency surgery. No bueno.
So how do you keep your little vacuum cleaner safe? Try this:
Pet-proof like a pro: If it fits in a mouth, it’s a candidate for the Grand Disappearing Act.
Trade up: Offer irresistible toys that make socks look boring. And maybe avoid that charming dog toy that is purposely shaped and looks like a sock.
Master “drop it”: A dog who reliably releases contraband can save you thousands and some serious panic.
And if you catch your dog eyeing the fake grass like it’s a Michelin-starred meal, remember: some lessons in pet parenting are learned one chewed-up object at a time. These things are preventable.
Is Last Year’s Sun Damage Showing Up As This Year’s Dark Spots?
You can’t go back in time and prevent sun damage from last year, but you can do something about it this year.
Chuckle
The fib is A. Grass covers about 20% of the Earth’s vegetation. From prairies to savannas, grasses dominate a huge part of the world’s landscapes.
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