The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe The Skeptics Guide #1067 - Dec 20 2025
Dec 20, 2025
Discover how animals are adapting to human environments, from bears to coyotes. Dive into the intriguing ethics of pig organ transplants and what they mean for xenotransplantation. Learn about Japan's ambitious solar power project aimed at beaming energy from space. Explore the quirky concept of ant 'yogurt' and its fermentation science roots. Finally, uncover the mystery surrounding Rudolf Diesel's disappearance and engage in a fun astronomy quiz to spot the fiction among intriguing facts.
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Double Vaccine Arm Reaction
- Cara described getting flu and COVID shots in the same arm and having an unusually strong local reaction.
- The panel noted double local reactions are common and usually not serious.
Wild Animals Adapt To Human Proximity
- Urban wildlife populations can evolve reduced aggressiveness when they live alongside humans for generations.
- Human presence and selective killing of aggressive individuals both push animals toward docile, dog-like traits.
Practical Steps To Avoid Bear Conflicts
- Secure attractants like birdseed and garbage to reduce dangerous human–bear encounters.
- Use neighborhood alerts and bring pets indoors when wildlife is sighted.