Science Magazine Podcast This year’s biggest breakthrough and top news stories
Dec 18, 2025
Join Online News Editor David Grimm, Producer Meagan Cantwell, and Contributing News Editor Greg Miller as they explore this year's scientific marvels. They delve into how bird feeders can influence hummingbird beak evolution, and discuss the implications of a confirmed Denisovan skull from ancient DNA. Discover breakthroughs in gene editing therapies and advancements in xenotransplantation with pig kidneys. They also highlight renewable energy's rise as a significant breakthrough, setting the stage for a sustainable future.
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Feeders Driving Rapid Hummingbird Evolution
- Hummingbird feeders drove rapid evolution in Anna's hummingbirds over roughly 10 generations.
- Beaks lengthened and sharpened as birds adapted to access and defend feeder-provided food.
Trees That Benefit From Lightning Strikes
- Almendro trees appear to survive lightning while surrounding trees and parasitic vines die.
- Their height and internal water-conducting structure may channel strikes to clear competitors and parasites.
Sharks Playing With Pool Toys
- Aquarists added pool toys to a tank with 12 sharks and watched behaviors emerge over weeks.
- Sharks and skates began interacting with rings and toys in ways researchers described as play.