Behavior

Playing dead is a common defense mechanism in the animal kingdom, but scientists in Australia have discovered an example on a whole new scale. Entire colonies of ants were found to be feigning death, in a collective behavior never before recorded.

The myth that goldfish have only a three-second memory might sell short their mental capabilities. A new study shows some fish can recognize themselves in a photo, meaning they join a pretty exclusive club of animals known to have some self-awareness.

For half a century beta blockers have been used to help patients with cardiovascular problems manage their abnormal heart rhythms, but a new study tracking over a million people has found the common drug may also reduce aggression and violent behavior.

If you’ve ever found room for dessert when you thought you were full, your gut bacteria might be to blame. Caltech scientists have shown that mice given antibiotics ate far more sugary snacks, hinting at a bacterial influence on overeating.

A study has utilized a new kind of computer modeling to investigate how pre-existing drugs could be repurposed to treat autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Among the findings was a discovery that an anti-diarrhea drug could improve ASD symptoms.

Even though the basking shark is the world's second-largest fish, much of its life has eluded observation. Now, however, researchers have determined that the usually solitary animals find mates by meeting up and circling around one another.

We’re all maybe a bit surly after a sleepless night, but a new study suggests our levels of day-to-day selfishness can be directly related to how well rested we are, and these findings could have implications on both individual and societal levels.

Although great white sharks have few natural enemies, orcas have been known to prey on them. A new study now shows that due to attacks by just two orcas, great whites are staying away from parts of South Africa.

Presented by the California Academy of Sciences, the BigPicture Competition annually delivers an incredible collection of nature photographs. This year’s shots span from a bizarre cactus bee mating ritual to a surreal glimpse at a sea star spawning.

The biology behind social behavior may be more complex than we thought. Researchers have used CRISPR to block a certain neurochemical signaling pathway in hamsters, and found that the animals’ social behaviors changed in unexpected ways.

Greater mouse-eared bats are preyed upon by owls, but the owls themselves likely avoid hornets, for fear of getting stung. New research suggests that the bats take advantage of this fact, by buzzing like hornets to keep owls at bay.

A study has found a link between increased generosity in old age and levels of a neurochemical called oxytocin. The research found older people with high levels of oxytocin were more likely to donate money to charity and be satisfied with their lives.