WTF • Fun • Fact    ( /dʌb(ə)lˌju/  /ti/   /ef/ • /fʌn/ • /fækt/ )

     1. noun  A random, interesting, and overall fun fact that makes you scratch your head and think what the...

WTF Fun Fact 13423 – Egyptian New Year

Ancient Egyptian New Year took place right after the summer solstice. But it’s all because of the stars.

How did the ancient Egyptian New Year work?

In ancient Egypt, a star took center stage in the night sky right after the summer solstice. Not just any star, but Sirius, the brightest in our galaxy. Its annual appearance sparked a series of critical events. The Nile River would flood, replenishing the arid land with fresh, fertile soil. An agricultural resurgence followed, as did the beginning of a new year in the Egyptian calendar. That’s why Sirius was also referred to as the “Nile Star.”

New beginnings

So, what was the connection between the summer solstice, Sirius, and the Nile’s annual flooding? Each event seemed to occur in a synchronized manner. The solstice, marking the longest day of the year, was like the opening act. It was the signal, the green light, that Sirius was about to make its grand appearance.

Soon after the solstice, just as the Earth began its tilt away from the sun, Sirius would rise above the eastern horizon. The Egyptians saw this as no coincidence. In their view, Sirius had a profound influence on the Earth. It controlled the ebbs and flows of the mighty Nile.

In essence, the Egyptians saw the world around them as a mirror of the cosmos. Everything was interconnected. The rise of Sirius, the flooding of the Nile, the abundance of crops – these were not isolated events but part of a grand, divine plan. They believed Sirius triggered the Nile flood. The life-bringing waters were a celestial gift, ushering in a season of fertility and growth.

Following the cosmos

With the rise of Sirius linked to such an essential natural event, it’s no surprise the Egyptians incorporated it into their calendar. The Egyptian New Year was not only a temporal marker but a time of celebration, renewal, and anticipation for the bountiful harvest that lay ahead.

The fascinating link between Sirius, the summer solstice, and the flooding of the Nile demonstrates the Egyptians’ profound understanding of astronomy and its influence on their environment. They recognized patterns, made predictions, and used this knowledge to their advantage.

And this is yet another reminder that calendars do not arbitrarily mark time but are instead rooted in the significant events of their world.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “SUMMER SOLSTICE: 3 HISTORICAL LOCATIONS THAT MARK THE ORIGINAL HOLIDAY” — Inverse

WTF Fun Fact 13422 – Tom Brown Apple Hunter

Meet Tom Brown, Apple Hunter. He tracks down ancient apple varieties that most people have forgotten.

Why is Tom Brown hunting apples?

Brown’s journey is a love letter to the diversity and richness of apples. He got his start in Clemmons, North Carolina, where a legendary apple called the “Old Fashioned Winesap” sparked his interest. This apple, filled with an intensity of flavor unlike the common supermarket varieties, set Brown on his lifelong quest.

In this pursuit of forgotten flavors, Brown encounters more than just apples. He stumbles upon stories, history, and a myriad of people who are tied to these varieties in one way or another. He also discovers why these varieties are significant and what they tell us about the changing landscape of agriculture.

Brown’s approach to apple hunting is both scientific and adventurous. He frequents old farmsteads, graveyards, and homesites across the southeast. Each location brims with the potential for a forgotten apple treasure.

Brown uses DNA testing to confirm the identity of each apple, but also relies heavily on the tales and memories of the locals to uncover the stories behind the fruit.

The diversity of heritage apples is astonishing. In his travels, Brown has found apples of every conceivable color, taste, and size. There are apples for pies, for cider, for eating fresh off the tree. There are even apples that taste like a banana or a pineapple.

Why is apple hunting important?

This work is about more than just fruit. It’s about biodiversity. Our reliance on a few commercial apple varieties contributes to a lack of genetic diversity, which can have consequences for disease and pest resistance. By resurrecting these heritage varieties, Brown helps maintain the genetic diversity essential for the health of apple orchards worldwide.

But it’s also about a shared heritage. These heritage apples are remnants of a bygone era, a time when every family had an apple tree in their yard, and each apple variety had a story to tell. Saving these apples means preserving a piece of our shared cultural history.

In essence, Brown’s quest is a celebration of apples in all their wonderful variety. It’s a reminder that there is more to this humble fruit than meets the eye. Through his work, Brown tells the stories of these heritage apples, each one a window into our past, a testament to nature’s diversity, and a beacon for the future of sustainable agriculture.

Just like the apples he collects, Tom Brown is unique in his passion and dedication. His journey illustrates the importance of maintaining biodiversity and preserving our shared history, one apple at a time. Through his efforts, we’re reminded of the rich tapestry of apple varieties that exist beyond the few types stocked on supermarket shelves.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “The Heritage Apple Hunter: The story of Tom Brown” — The Organic Magazine

WTF Fun Fact 13421 – Sheep Walking in Circles

Do you ever feel like you’re going around in circles? Well, for a group of sheep in Inner Mongolia (in northern China), it’s the truth – the case of the sheep walking in circles has intrigued the whole world.

Why are sheep walking in circles in China?

The flock of sheep has been making headlines and leaving observers utterly baffled. Imagine this: over 400 fluffy creatures spending a dozen days walking in circles, around the clock, for no apparent reason.

You can see for yourself in a Tweet from late 2022 that shows the eerie action:

It all started when unsuspecting farm owner Ms Miao noticed a few members of her flock of 445 sheep acting peculiar. Rather than the usual meandering, the sheep kept moving in a uniform, nonstop circle. It became even more perplexing as the rest of the sheep joined in.

This seemingly synchronized movement lasted for an incredible 12 days!

So, what on earth was going on?

Internet theories bounced back and forth from the absurd to the scientific. Some whispered about extraterrestrial influences. Others suggested the sheep were performing a ritualistic dance or following a leader stuck in a rut. Some more grounded thinkers proposed the possibility of a viral infection causing neurological symptoms, leading the sheep to walk in a circle. Yet, no one could point out a definitive answer.

Local authorities and veterinarians jumped into action, trying to unravel the mystery of the circular march. They examined the sheep, searching for any signs of disease or infections. The result? No physical health issues. It was as if the sheep were merely marching to the beat of their own drum, oblivious to the stir they were causing.

Meanwhile, the spectacle continued to bewitch spectators and intrigued academics around the globe. Experts in animal behavior from different universities began investigating the phenomenon. They poured over the footage, studying each sheep’s motion, their interactions, and their formation’s intricacy.

Unraveling the mystery of the sheep circle

Eventually, animal experts stepped in to explain that the sheep were merely following their instinctual herd behavior. Sheep are flock animals, and they follow their leaders. If the leader walks in a circle, the others will follow, creating a perpetuating cycle until something disrupts it.

The experts’ opinion might not be as exciting as alien communication, but it was certainly more plausible. In this case, the most likely scenario was that the leading sheep started walking in a circle, maybe due to a physical ailment, and the rest merely followed, each sheep dutifully following the one in front. This theory, while not confirmed, put an end to some of the more far-fetched theories.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Mystery of Sheep Walking in Circle in China for 12 Days Potentially Solved” — Newsweek

WTF Fun Fact 13420 – Combat Juggling

We’ve certainly hurt ourselves by accident while trying to juggle, but that’s not the same as combat juggling. This unorthodox game is swinging its way into the heart of the sports world with a bizarre mix of athletics, skill, and showmanship.

What is combat juggling?

Juggling, in its humblest form, is a street art, performed at carnivals and circuses. But bring it to the arena of competitive sports, and it turns into a wild, adrenaline-pumping showdown known as Combat Juggling. The aim? Hold your ground, keep your balls in the air, and knock out your opponent’s juggling pattern. Sounds crazy, right? But that’s the essence of this exhilarating sport.

Picture this: skilled athletes in a gladiatorial match, maintaining their juggling rhythm while trying to disrupt their opponents. It’s a riveting spectacle, combining finesse, quick reflexes, and relentless attack – ingredients that make sports fans sit on the edge of their seats.

Who came up with this unique sport?

Combat Juggling’s origin traces back to the International Jugglers’ Association (IJA) Championships. Its growing popularity can’t be ignored, and it’s gradually creeping onto sports networks, entrancing audiences with its unique charm (and the fact that it even exists).

Mastering juggling is prerequisite number one. But then throw in the element of combat, and you’ve got a whole new ball game. The athletes – or should we say warriors – take the stage with five juggling clubs each. The battle begins with the sound of the whistle, and the athletes swing into action.

Then comes the disruption. The aim isn’t just to keep your clubs spinning in the air; it’s about making sure your opponent’s clubs hit the ground. That’s where the combat comes in.

Where’s the combat?

It’s juggling meets dodgeball. The last person standing, juggling clubs intact, wins.

The competitors range from professional jugglers to sports enthusiasts looking to step out of their comfort zones. And the best part? Anyone can participate. Gender, age, background – none of it matters. All you need is a set of juggling clubs, a knack for disruption, and a hearty dose of competitive spirit.

The first World Juggling Federation’s Major League Combat event was held in 2010. Since then, Combat Juggling has exploded into the public consciousness, drawing both seasoned jugglers and curious newcomers. Its popularity has even spawned a dedicated fanbase, and the sport has become a mainstay at juggling festivals across the globe.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Combat Juggling is the next best sports craze to sweep the nation” — Medium

WTF Fun Fact 13419 – The Train Fueled by Ramen

Buckle up because we’re taking a train ride fueled by ramen. Yes, the noodly food with the broth that can’t be beat.

The magic of ramen

It turns out that the magic of ramen in Japan extends beyond the bowl. Japan’s love affair with ramen has led to an invention that’s a perfect fusion of ingenuity and sustainability: the ramen-fueled train.

In Japan’s Miyazaki Prefecture, there’s a popular sightseeing train on the Amaterasu Railway. It takes you through scenic landscapes in style. And it runs on an unexpected sustainable fuel source: leftover ramen oil!

Yes, you read it right – the waste oil from ramen noodles is now a green energy source.

How does a train fueled by ramen work?

So, how does a bowl of ramen morph into train fuel?

According to Mental Floss (cited below) reporting from My Modern Met:

“As of the latter half of 2022, it runs on tonkotsu ramen broth salvaged from local restaurants. A Japanese trucking company called Nishida Logistics extracts pork fat from the stock and refines it; it’s then mixed with old oils used to fry foods like tempura. The final formula consists of 90 percent cooking oil and 10 percent ramen broth lard.”

Ramen as fuel for green energy

Now, let’s shine the spotlight on the ecological benefits of this ramen revolution. Every liter of biodiesel reduces CO2 emissions by approximately 2.5 kg compared to regular diesel. In one year, the train is estimated to utilize around 21,000 liters of biodiesel. It’s not just a drop in the ocean. It’s a significant leap towards carbon neutrality.

But, the benefits of this initiative extend beyond reducing carbon footprints. By utilizing waste oil, it helps reduce disposal costs and risks associated with waste oil. Simultaneously, it offers an additional income stream to ramen shops that otherwise would have to pay to dispose of the excess oil.

Another noteworthy facet of this project is its community involvement. The biodiesel is sourced from local ramen shops, promoting a sense of community participation in sustainable practices.

Ramen power

While the ramen-fueled train is a unique case, it represents a broader shift towards sustainable energy sources in transportation. The ingenuity of using a readily available waste product showcases the limitless possibilities for sustainable energy.

From a bowl of ramen to the sweeping landscapes of the town of Takachiho, the journey of this energy-efficient train tells a tale of environmental stewardship. The ramen-fueled train is not just a sightseeing marvel; it stands as a testament to Japan’s pioneering spirit in tackling environmental challenges head-on.

So, the next time you find yourself in Japan, relishing a bowl of delicious ramen, remember – you’re not just feeding your stomach, but also fuelling a greener future. Now, that’s food for thought!

— WTF fun facts

Source: “This Tourist Train in Japan Is Fueled By Salvaged Ramen Broth” — Mental Floss

WTF Fun Fact 13418 – Developing a Peppa Pig British Accent

It turns out some American kids who binge-watch a popular British cartoon are developing a Peppa Pig British accent. As children watch this series, they may start naturally mimicking the characters’ distinct British accents. This has been coined as the “Peppa Effect.”

The Peppa Effect

The Peppa Effect has captured the fascination of parents and linguists alike. As children immerse themselves in the world of Peppa Pig, they absorb the language patterns and pronunciation of the characters. This leads to subtle changes in their speech. While it may seem peculiar, it is a testament to the power of media influence on young minds – for better or worse.

The simplicity and repetition of the show’s dialogue play a significant role in shaping children’s speech patterns. Peppa Pig features clear enunciation, catchy phrases, and a playful rhythm that captivates young viewers. It’s basically teaching them to speak.

Observing the Peppa Pig British accent

While the Peppa Effect may seem like a fleeting phase, it provides a fascinating insight into the malleability of children’s language acquisition. Research has long highlighted the role of media in shaping children’s linguistic development. Peppa Pig’s impact serves as a vivid illustration of this phenomenon. As children imitate the characters they adore, they engage in a form of natural language learning. This helps expand their repertoire of speech patterns and accents.

It’s important to note that the Peppa Effect is not limited to American kids. Similar trends have been observed in other parts of the world where Peppa Pig has gained popularity. Children in Australia, Canada, and even non-English-speaking countries have exhibited subtle shifts in their speech due to exposure to Peppa Pig.

It’s important to note that the Peppa Effect is a temporary and harmless influence on children’s speech. Language experts emphasize that it is a natural part of language development, where children explore and experiment with different accents and speech patterns as they navigate their linguistic development.

As children grow older, their speech patterns will naturally evolve and align with their cultural context.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “American Kids Are Talking Like Brits Again Because of Peppa Pig and the Pandemic” — Mental Floss

WTF Fun Fact 13417 – Cow Cuddling

Whether you look at a cow as a future meal or a friend, you might be surprised to know that cow cuddling is something people are really into. That’s right – cuddling a cow. A real one. Getting right in there and snuggling up.

Is cow cuddling real?

We’ll admit that we thought this was some kind of Onion article, but it’s true.

Cow cuddling, a unique and increasingly popular activity, aims to offer a tranquil and soothing experience for those seeking a connection with nature. And it has also been found to alleviate some of the stress of everyday life.

The practice involves spending quality time with cows in a calm and serene environment, where individuals can unwind, relax, and embrace the therapeutic benefits of human-animal interaction.

You probably don’t come away smelling better, but that’s nothing a shower can’t fix.

Where can you cuddle a cow?

The practice originated in the Netherlands but is gaining momentum around the world. Cow cuddling provides an opportunity for people to engage with these gentle creatures on a deeper level. The concept is simple yet profound: humans lie or sit next to cows, stroke their soft fur, and bask in their peaceful presence. As the human touch meets the warm and comforting energy of the cows, a sense of tranquility envelops participants, allowing them to escape the pressures of the modern world.

Not in the Netherlands? Stop by Mountain Horse Farm in Asheville, North Carolina! They’re known for their bonding experiences with horses, but they told TODAY in 2022 (cited below) that their animal therapy has grown to include cows.

Why cows? They don’t seem so snuggly

We don’t know how the cows actually feel about this, but their relatively docile nature makes them good for this sort of therapy. Cows also seem to have an innate ability to sense emotions, creating an empathetic connection with those around them. They are receptive to human touch, responding with a soothing and grounding energy that can alleviate stress and promote a sense of well-being.

Research suggests that interacting with cows in a therapeutic setting can have a range of positive effects on human health. The act of cuddling cows releases oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and relaxation. This surge of oxytocin helps to reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure, and enhance overall emotional well-being. The rhythmic nature of stroking a cow’s fur can also induce a meditative state, calming the mind and promoting a sense of inner peace.

At one with nature

Furthermore, spending time in nature and connecting with animals has been linked to improved mental health outcomes. The peaceful and serene environment in which cow cuddling takes place serves as a natural sanctuary.

This immersive experience in nature can help reduce anxiety, alleviate symptoms of depression, and enhance overall emotional resilience.

Participating in a cow cuddling session involves a structured approach to ensure everyone’s safety. Experienced handlers guide the interaction, ensuring that boundaries are respected and that the cows remain comfortable throughout the process. Sessions may include introductory activities to establish a connection with the cows, followed by moments of gentle physical contact.

It is worth noting that cow cuddling is not a substitute for professional therapy or medical treatment. Instead, it serves as a complementary practice that can enhance overall well-being.

— WTF fun facts

Source: Cow cuddling helps people struggling with depression feel hope and connection — TODAY

WTF Fun Fact 13416 – Blood Falls Antarctica

Blood Falls Antarctica is a frozen waterfall, cascading five stories from the ice, gushing forth not crystal-clear water but an arresting, vivid red liquid.

So, what’s the backstory of Blood Falls Antarctica?

It’s a tale woven from the threads of geology, microbiology, and chemistry, spun over millennia. Blood Falls gets its name and dramatic hue from iron-rich brine, trapped under Taylor Glacier over two million years ago.

The secrets of the falls stayed locked away until the brine found a fissure through which to burst forth. And here’s the fun part – the iron in the water, upon exposure to air, undergoes a reaction. It rusts! Just like an old garden rake left out in the rain, the liquid takes on a startlingly bright, rusty red hue. Hence, the startling crimson cascade that is Blood Falls.

It’s alive!

But the story doesn’t end there. Hidden beneath the glacier, in the depths of the briny reservoir, researchers discovered something utterly mind-blowing. Microbes! Yes, you read that right – in an environment devoid of light and oxygen, where temperatures can dip well below freezing, life has found a way.

These extremophile microbes feast on sulfates in the water, metabolizing them into energy. Aha! Now we’re cooking! These minuscule organisms offer fascinating insights into life’s tenacity, its sheer refusal to go gentle into that good night. They show us the stunning adaptability of life and provide tantalizing possibilities about life existing in similar conditions on other planets. Mars, anyone?

A unique tourist destination

Now, you might think that with its vivid, gory spectacle and a location as remote as Antarctica, Blood Falls would be off the radar for most people. But you’d be mistaken. This extraordinary waterfall has become a focal point for scientists and a bucket list destination for adventure tourists seeking experiences far from the beaten path. Imagine the selfies!

It’s a testament to nature’s ingenuity and never-ending capacity to surprise and inspire us. From the moment geologist Griffith Taylor discovered it in 1911, Blood Falls has been a thing of grim beauty and scientific wonder. It stands there today, a riveting red river flowing from a glacier’s heart, a symbol of the mysteries that still lie tucked away in Earth’s farthest corners, waiting for us to uncover them.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Blood Falls in Antarctica, what makes them red?” — EarthSky

WTF Fun Fact 13415 – World’s Oldest Dog

If dog years are to be believed, Bobi, the world’s oldest dog, would be pushing towards a ripe 217 years old. However, in human years, Bobi has just celebrated a resounding 31st birthday.

The story of the world’s oldest dog

Bobi, a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo, a breed of Portuguese dog, has surpassed all expectations and defied age itself. Bobi’s owners have cared for him with a devotion that has no doubt added to his longevity.

Bobi’s journey started on 11 May 1992, and he’s been going strong ever since. The average life expectancy for a dog is 12 – 14 years, and the pup has more than doubled that! Imagine how wonderful it would be to have your best friend by your side for three decades. Almost none of us are that lucky when it comes to furry friends, sadly.

Bobi’s family planned a big birthday bash for him in May of 2023. They said it would be a very traditional Portuguese party.

A second life

Bobi has lived his entire life with the same family – the Costa family – in the rural village of Conqueiros. That’s located in the picturesque area of Leiria, in western Portugal.

His Guinness Book of World Records broke that of Bluey, an Australian cattle dog who lived for 29 years and 5 months between 1910 and 1939. Bluey held his record for a century!

As Bobi continues to defy age and inspire us all, his story serves as a reminder of the profound impact that love, care, and companionship can have on our furry friends. With each passing day, Bobi demonstrates the immeasurable joy and boundless happiness that our beloved pets bring into our lives.

Let’s celebrate Bobi’s exceptional journey and cherish the moments we share with our own cherished companions. But hold the visitors – Bobi is largely in good health, but his vet is worried about him being stressed by all of the people who have come by recently to take a photo with the old boy.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Bobi, the world’s oldest dog, celebrates 31st birthday” — CNN