The first cannibals? Plus, these women were more powerful than queens; 8 ways to beat the heat

RJ Hamster

1 year ago

Monday, June 26, 2023

In today’s newsletter, we find evidence of a stomach-turning dinner by ancient hominins; cover Bali fighting back against public nudity and sex in sacred places … and learn the most powerful women in royal France didn’t wear crowns. Plus, eight ways to beat the heat.

PHOTOGRAPH BY JENNIFER CLARK, NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY/SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION

The researcher couldn’t believe what she saw. She sent her discovery to a colleague without comment.

Briana Pobiner had been looking for human ancestors devoured by predators. But instead, she found signs (above, cut marks on a bone) that ancient hominins had consumed one of their own.

THE FIRST CANNIBALS?

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STORIES WE’RE FOLLOWING

PHOTOGRAPH BY JAMES BLAIR, NASA/JSC/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Yes, astronauts get sick more often in space. Here’s why.(Above, a simulation seeks to measure pressure on the brain from microgravity.)

How do you know if you have a tick bite (and how do you prevent that)?

No, THEY ruled: 4 French mistresses who made a difference

Nudity, sex, and disrespect: Bali looks to rein in bad tourist behavior

8 ways to beat the heat

Why curly hair is an evolutionary advantage

Debunked: The curse of the Bermuda Triangle

What’s the source of Turkey’s volcanic explosions? It’s 1,000 miles away.

Blocking ‘cellular looting’ may help destroy devastating brain cancers

What really attracts mosquitoes—and how to repel them

PHOTO OF THE DAY

BRIDGEMAN/ACI

Catfish recognition: They may not be the most beautiful of water species but they have their own day—and were beloved by Egypt’s first pharaohs. Above is an exquisite golden pendant crafted around 1878-1749 B.C. of a catfish that was a popular charm in ancient Egypt. Fun fact: Did you know that catfish are the most diverse group of fish on earth?
Related:
Learn about a plan to save the biggest freshwater fish, including a giant catfish.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

BRIDGEMAN/ACI

Work-life balance: His disciplined approach to work served Emperor Franz Josef well as ruler of Austria-Hungary. Not so much in his private life. (Above, he is shown working, alongside a portrait of Empress Sisi.)

A WILD FAMILY

LAST GLIMPSE

PHOTOGRAPH BY BRIAN FINKE/GALLERY STOCK

Protecting kids: Sunglasses can be key to protecting their vision. And they may need the help more than adults. Here’s what you need to know (hint: avoid novelty sunglasses with no UV protection.)

FUTURE SO BRIGHT

Today’s soundtrack: S eria Feliz, Julieta Venegas

Thanks for reading today’s newsletter! It was curated and edited by Jen Tse, Hannah Farrow, Nancy San Martín, and David Beard. Want to let us know your thoughts? Send away: david.beard@natgeo.com. Happy trails!

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