Winter rabbit burrows do more than shelter their owners. Underground tunnels trap moisture and keep temperatures stable, creating perfect conditions for mites and other parasites to survive between hosts. Now researchers using thermal cameras can map these burrows in detail, showing how a simple hole can shape survival for rabbits and the tiny “unwelcome guests” living off them.
Scientists say ant colonies can be hijacked: parasitic queens release chemical signals that change the host colony’s scent. Workers then misidentify their own queen as an intruder and help kill her. The finding upends assumptions that ant societies rely on simple cooperation, showing how finely tuned parasite strategies can destabilize entire insect communities.
Your news, in seconds
Get the Beige app — every story in 60 words, updated hourly. Free on iOS & Android.
Swipe through stories, personalise your feed, and save articles for later — all on the app.
