funny facts

WTF Fun Fact 13520 – Fish Cut Off Power

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A fish cut off power to a New Jersey community. But how?

In Sayreville, Fish Cuts Off Power

On a seemingly ordinary day in Sayreville, New Jersey, a power outage caught residents off guard. The culprits behind this surprising event? An osprey and its slippery prey—a fish. The osprey’s catch fell onto a transformer’s coils, causing misalignment and, consequently, a power disruption for around 2,000 residents.

While this isn’t the first time an animal has triggered a power disruption, a fish isn’t typically a culprit. Or, in this case, we might be better off blaming the osprey for accidentally losing its meal.

Jersey Central Power & Light’s spokesperson added a touch of humor to the situation, remarking, “If you’ve ever dropped your ice-cream cone at the fair, you know the feeling,” empathizing with the osprey’s unexpected plight.

The Feathered Fiasco

Evidence pointing to an osprey’s involvement came from the puncture marks on the fish, suggesting it had been caught by the bird’s talons. It’s worth noting that ospreys, once endangered in New Jersey, have been on the rebound. Recent counts indicate 733 nesting pairs in the state. This resurgence has led utility companies, like Jersey Central Power & Light, to routinely inspect equipment for osprey nests, relocating when necessary.

The Sayreville police added a humorous touch to the incident, sketching the osprey as the “suspect” on Facebook. Alongside, they depicted the fish, now named Gilligan, behind a “police line do not cross” tape.

The playful post described Gilligan as a “hardworking family man” and urged residents not to approach the osprey, highlighting its potential “danger.”

This event underscores the need for proactive infrastructure management, considering the unforeseen challenges wildlife can present. For Sayreville residents, this story serves as a quirky tale of the day a fish cut off power and cast their town into darkness.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “New Jersey community loses electricity after bird drops fish on to power lines” — The Guardian

WTF Fun Fact 13519 – Dog Eats Passport

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It’s another one of those stories: – man meets woman, man and woman plan wedding in Italy, man’s dog eats passport right before the wedding so he can’t travel. A tale as old as time, right?

For Donato Frattaroli of Massachusetts, the days after his wedding became a mad dash against time, bureaucracy, and a mischievous golden retriever named Chickie. Just days before he was set to fly to Europe for his wedding, Chickie decided to indulge in a snack that put the entire celebration in jeopardy: Frattaroli’s passport.

Chickie’s Appetite for Adventure

Anyone who has a pet knows that they can sometimes get themselves into mischief. The one-year-old golden retriever, endearingly named Chickie – short for Chicken Cutlet, took this to a new level. Multiple pages of Frattaroli’s passport, crucial for his upcoming trip to Italy, bore evidence of Chickie’s taste for international cuisine. One can only wonder if Chickie sensed the significance of the document or simply saw it as another chew toy.

Dog Eats Passport

Discovering the chewed-up passport so close to their wedding date must have been a heart-stopping moment for Frattaroli and his fiancée, Magda Mazri. The panic that would ensue in such a scenario is unimaginable for most. With a scheduled wedding reception in Italy just around the corner, every second counted.

Normally, replacing a passport can be a tedious process, often taking weeks. Undeterred, the soon-to-be-wed couple took quick action, reaching out to local lawmakers for assistance. Their pleas didn’t fall on deaf ears. Rep. Stephen Lynch and Sen. Edward Markey of Massachusetts swiftly stepped in, aiding the couple in expediting the typically lengthy passport renewal process.

A Paws-itive Spin

Optimism and perseverance paid off. Just a few days later, following a crucial appointment on Monday, Frattaroli had a brand-new passport by Wednesday, as reported by Boston ABC affiliate WCVB. A story that began with potential heartbreak had turned into a heartwarming tale of community support and swift action.

Learning from the experience, Frattaroli told WCVB about his plans to invest in a file cabinet or safe, ensuring such precious documents stay out of Chickie’s playful reach in the future.

Not ones to let a dramatic incident overshadow their joy, the couple turned the situation into a fun anecdote. They shared a celebratory photo of Frattaroli’s new passport. And in a delightful twist, Chickie wasn’t left out of the travel plans.

The golden retriever received his very own “pupster passport” – a playful nod to the chaos he unwittingly caused. This special passport boasted stamps from fun destinations such as a fire hydrant, the beach, and of course, “Granny’s home.”

A Journey of Gratitude After Dog Eats Passport

The overwhelming support and assistance the couple received in their time of need left a lasting impression. “We are extremely grateful. …All of the support has not gone unnoticed and we are forever thankful!” Mazri expressed to ABC News.

As the couple finally set off for their dream wedding in Italy, Mazri joyfully exclaimed, “Andiamo!” – “Let’s go!” in Italian.

This story, while filled with initial panic, serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of life. It’s a testament to the importance of community, resilience, and maintaining a sense of humor, even when faced with unexpected challenges.

And of course, it’s also a gentle nudge to all pet owners to keep vital documents away from their furry friends’ curious paws.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Groom gets new passport in time for wedding after dog ate it” — Good Morning America

WTF Fun Fact 13516 – Bald Eagle Breaststroke

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Bald eagles, like some other birds of prey, can swim using a movement that’s remarkably similar to the human breaststroke. If an eagle catches a fish that’s too heavy to lift, it may use its wings in a swimming motion to move to shore with its catch.

The Bald Eagle Breast Stroke

When one thinks of the American bald eagle, a distinctive image comes to mind: a majestic bird soaring high in the skies, its sharp eyes scouting below for prey, or perched high atop a tree or cliff. Rarely do we picture this iconic bird swimming in water, wings sprawled out, making its way steadily to the shore.

However, bald eagles are primarily fish eaters, and their hunting strategy involves swooping down from a high perch or mid-air to snatch fish out of the water with their talons. Sometimes the prey might be too hefty for the eagle to lift.

Instead of abandoning the catch, the eagle, driven by instinct and determination, will resort to “swimming” to the nearest shore, using its wings in a motion reminiscent of the human breaststroke.

The Mechanics of the Eagle’s “Breaststroke”

Eagles, like all birds, have powerful pectoral muscles that control their wing movements. When airborne, these muscles allow them to achieve strong, sustained flapping or to glide gracefully using updrafts. In the water, these same muscles serve a different but equally vital purpose.

An eagle in the water will spread its wings out and push against the water, essentially using its wings as makeshift paddles. This motion propels the bird forward in a slow but steady manner. The movement is surprisingly coordinated, and the resemblance to the human breaststroke is uncanny. The eagle keeps its head above water, looks straight ahead, and aims for the shore.

Swimming is not an eagle’s forte, so the bald eagle breaststroke is not something you’re likely to see.

The process is energy-intensive and leaves the bird vulnerable to potential threats. The waterlogged feathers become heavy, making the task even more arduous.

However, the promise of a big meal may outweigh the risks, especially during breeding season when there are eaglets to feed. A large fish can provide sustenance for the entire family.

While the image of a bald eagle swimming might seem incongruous, it’s a vivid reminder of the surprising and often overlooked behaviors of the animal kingdom. Nature is full of examples of adaptability and resilience, and the bald eagle’s occasional foray into aquatic locomotion is a fascinating instance of this.

Want to see an eagle in action? Check it out:

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Bald Eagle Does the Breaststroke” — Good Nature

WTF Fun Fact 13515 – Basketball Backboard

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The basketball backboard wasn’t invented for the reason you think.

The backboard stands out not just for its functional relevance in today’s game but also for its surprising origin. Contrary to popular belief, the backboard wasn’t initially introduced for the bank shot or to guide rebounds. It was there to prevent overly enthusiastic fans from interfering!

Basketball History

Dr. James Naismith, a physical education instructor from Canada, invented basketball in 1891. He was trying to create a game that could be played indoors during the winter. So he thought up a sport involving a ball and two peach baskets.

Naismith drafted a set of thirteen rules for this new game. However, those original rules didn’t account for the human factor—specifically, the enthusiasm of spectators.

As basketball games started to draw larger crowds, a problem became apparent. The fans, seated on a running track that circled above the gym floor of Springfield College, leaned over the railing and either deflected the ball as shots were made or caught it and threw it to favor one side.

Given the close proximity of these early spectators to the action, it was tempting for them to become a part of the game themselves.

The Introduction of the Basketball Backboard

To counter this unexpected disruption, officials deemed a physical barrier necessary. The solution? A backboard placed directly behind the basket. Initially made of wire and later wood, these backboards served as a fence to prevent interference, ensuring the game remained fair and wasn’t swayed by overzealous fans.

It’s intriguing to think that an element of the game so crucial to strategies and point-scoring was introduced not for the players but to keep the audience in check!

Evolution and Unintended Consequences

With the introduction of the backboard, players soon discovered they could use it as a tool to assist in scoring. This gave birth to the “bank shot,” where players bounce the ball off the backboard to get it into the basket. This unforeseen consequence added depth and strategy to the game.

Furthermore, as the game progressed and rules evolved, the material and specifications of the backboard changed. From the initial wire and wooden structures, today’s backboards are often made of shatterproof glass, which is both durable and allows spectators a clear view of the action.

While its original purpose was to deter fan interference, the backboard has become an integral part of basketball strategy. Players spend hours perfecting bank shots and learning the angles. It plays a role in defense strategies, as players block or “box out” opponents to control rebounds.

Moreover, the slam dunk, one of the most celebrated moves in basketball, often involves players making strong jumps and using the backboard to slam the ball down into the net, adding flair and drama to the game.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “The History of the Basketball Backboard” — SportsRec

WTF Fun Fact 13513 – Apple Mouse Prototype

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Innovation often comes from the most unexpected places–like a roll-on deodorant. Believe it or nor, the first Apple mouse prototype involved a deodorant ball.

Setting the Scene

The early 1980s was a transformative era for personal computing. The market was teeming with potential, and Steve Jobs, Apple’s visionary co-founder, recognized the importance of a user-friendly interface.

While visiting Xerox’s Palo Alto Research Center (PARC), Jobs was introduced to the concept of a graphical user interface and a device to navigate it: the mouse.

Enchanted by its potential, Jobs sought to integrate this technology into Apple’s computers. However, the existing design was clunky, costly, and far from the elegant solution Apple desired.

Birth of the Apple Mouse

Jobs handed the task of redesigning the mouse to Dean Hovey, a co-founder of the design firm IDEO. The challenge was clear: create a more efficient, durable, and above all, affordable mouse for the masses.

Hovey, in his endeavor to revolutionize the mouse’s design, found inspiration in an unlikely source: a deodorant stick. By taking apart a roll-on deodorant, Hovey observed that the ball could roll smoothly in any direction. This ball mechanism, he realized, could be the solution to creating a mouse that was both precise and cost-effective.

From Prototype to Product

Utilizing the deodorant ball, the team developed a prototype that was simpler and more efficient than its predecessors. It was an embodiment of Apple’s design philosophy — taking complex ideas and making them accessible and intuitive for the user.

But why was the deodorant ball so transformative? The key lay in its omnidirectional capability. Previous mouse designs often used wheels, limiting movement to two axes: horizontal and vertical.

The deodorant ball’s ability to roll freely in all directions allowed for more fluid and accurate on-screen movements, a feature that would become fundamental to the mouse’s operation.

Impact of the Apple Mouse

The Apple mouse, with its deodorant-inspired design, debuted in 1983 with the Apple Lisa computer, and a year later, with the iconic Apple Macintosh. Its release marked a paradigm shift in human-computer interaction, paving the way for the mouse to become an essential accessory for personal computers worldwide.

Though the internal mechanics of mice have evolved over the years, with laser and optical technologies replacing the ball mechanism, the foundational concept remains largely unchanged. The success of the Apple mouse laid the groundwork for future innovations in interface devices, from trackpads to touch screens.

Today, as we swipe, tap, and click our way through digital landscapes, it’s worth reflecting on the humble origins of the tools we often take for granted. The next time you roll on your deodorant, remember: it’s not just a daily ritual but a nod to a piece of technological history that helped shape the digital age.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “How the Guy Who Designed 1 of Apple’s Most Iconic Products Organizes His Office” — Inc.

WTF Fun Fact 13506 – Human Hair Can Hold Two Elephants

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When considered collectively (by the head), human hair can hold two elephants! That’s right, it can support the weight of two giant creatures.

Let’s explain.

The Anatomy of a Hair Strand

To truly grasp the astonishing strength of human hair, we must first delve into its structure. Each strand is composed of keratin, a type of protein. This protein is arranged in coiled coils, a configuration that provides both flexibility and strength to the hair.

The innermost layer, known as the medulla, is surrounded by the cortex, which in turn is encased by the outermost layer, the cuticle. Each of these layers contributes to the hair’s overall resilience.

One individual hair strand, despite its tensile strength, is unlikely to impress anyone with its ability to support weight. However, the collective strength of hair is where the true marvel lies.

The average human head has approximately 100,000 to 150,000 hair strands. When working in tandem, these hairs can exhibit strength that belies their delicate appearance.

Why Human Hair Can Hold Two Elephants

So, how do we arrive at the claim that human hair can hold two elephants? Let’s break it down:

  • An average strand of hair can support about 100 grams in weight. This might not seem like much, but when multiplied by the average number of hairs on a human head (let’s take the midpoint of 125,000 strands), we get a total weight of approximately 12.5 tons.
  • An average adult elephant weighs about 6 tons. So, theoretically, the combined strength of the hair on a human head could support two elephants, amounting to 12 tons!

The capacity of hair to support immense weight is just one facet of its remarkable nature. Hair can stretch up to 30% of its original length without breaking when wet. This elasticity is yet another testament to its durability.

But beyond its tensile strength and elasticity, hair also serves as an indicator of our health, reacts to emotional stimuli (like standing on end when we’re frightened), and plays a vital role in regulating body temperature.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Secrets of human hair unlocked at Natural History Museum in London” — The Guardian

WTF Fun Fact 13505 – The Town of Suloszowa

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In Suloszowa, Poland, all 6000 residents live on the same street!

Living in ‘Little Tuscany’

Imagine a town where everyone shares the same street, where houses unfurl along a singular pathway, dotted with fields of varying colors and purposes. Welcome to Sułoszowa in southern Poland, a village often dubbed “Little Tuscany” for its unique landscape.

Sułoszowa is not your everyday town. Stretching 9 kilometers, this single street houses all of its nearly 6,000 residents. But what captures one’s attention is not just the uncommon layout but the vibrant strips of land accompanying each residence.

While one plot boasts golden grains swaying in the breeze, another shimmers with the bright yellow of rapeseed. Every household has its patch, varying in hues, purposes, and stories. Whether to cultivate, rear animals, or just let nature take its course, each strip adds a unique flavor to the Sułoszowa tapestry.

While deeply rooted in tradition, Sułoszowa hasn’t remained untouched by modernity. Contemporary amenities dot the historic street, blending the old with the new. However, the challenges of the 21st century, like urban migration and technological advancements, pose questions about the town’s future layout.

Suloszowa Pride

The village’s beauty has not gone unnoticed. A snapshot capturing the essence of Sułoszowa went viral on social media platforms like Reddit, where users couldn’t help but marvel at the charming layout.

Each house, with its own plot of land, has left a visual impact on many, leading to comments about the town’s tranquillity compared to bustling city lives.

With an aerial view, Sułoszowa paints a mesmerizing picture. The houses, lined neatly, complemented by strips of varying colors, present a mosaic of life. These vibrant hues represent the different activities of its residents.

From bustling marketplaces to quaint local businesses, the street has witnessed generations of merchants and craftsmen ply their trade.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “A Look At The Polish Town Where All 6,000 Residents Live On The Same Street” — News 18

WTF Fun Fact 13494 – John Wilkins’ 17th-Century Moon Mission

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The first “moon mission” was dreamed up in the 17th century by a clergyman named John Wilkins.

Though the technologies of his time were rudimentary, Wilkins’ imagination and theories displayed a unique combination of audacity and scientific curiosity.

Early Life and Philosophical Leanings

John Wilkins was born in 1614. He was an Anglican clergyman and a founding member of the Royal Society, a body dedicated to the promotion of natural science. Wilkins was a polymath with interests ranging from theology to mathematics and cryptography. These varied interests equipped him with a unique perspective when it came to observing and understanding the cosmos.

John Wilkins’ Plurality of Worlds

Central to Wilkins’ astronomical ideas was the belief in a “plurality of worlds.” This concept was embraced by several thinkers of the era. It postulated that planets and celestial bodies, including the moon, were worlds much like Earth.

By this logic, the moon wasn’t just a shining orb in the sky. It was a place with landscapes, atmospheres, and perhaps even inhabitants. This revolutionary idea was radical and contrary to the predominant geocentric worldview upheld by many in the church.

In 1640, Wilkins published “A Discourse Concerning a New World and Another Planet.” In it, he explored the feasibility of humans traveling to the moon and other planets. He argued that if the moon were a world similar to Earth, humans should be able to travel there. Given the technological constraints of the 17th century, this was a bold proposition. His methods, in hindsight, were understandably primitive.

John Wilkins and the Flying Chariot

Wilkins believed that a “flying chariot” could take humans to the moon. This vehicle would be propelled by wings attached to it, a bit like the way birds fly. He theorized that the chariot’s wings would require less flapping the further it got from Earth due to the thinning atmosphere.

Additionally, he speculated on the absence of gravity in space. He noted that as one ascended, the pull of Earth’s gravitational force would diminish, making it easier to move around. Though rudimentary, such thoughts were a precursor to our modern understanding of the vacuum of space and microgravity environments.

Of course, not everyone was taken in by Wilkins’ ideas. His contemporaries raised various objections. Some focused on the theological implications. If there were beings on other planets, how did they fit into the Biblical narrative? Others doubted the physical feasibility. How would one breathe? How could wings work in the vacuum of space?

Wilkins tackled these questions head-on. He hypothesized that space wasn’t entirely devoid of air. Instead, the atmosphere thinned out but never completely disappeared, providing just enough air for breathing.

Legacy and the Dawn of Space Exploration

Though Wilkins’ moon mission ideas were not actualized in his lifetime, his speculations played a pivotal role in sparking interest in interplanetary exploration. His works represented a significant shift from purely observational astronomy to a more practical, exploration-driven approach.

Space exploration took another three centuries to become a reality. However, the philosophical and theoretical foundation was set in Wilkins’ era.

His thoughts, radical as they were, underscore the human spirit’s relentless quest for knowledge and exploration.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “The 17​th​-Century Moon Mission That Never Got Off the Ground” — Atlas Obscura

WTF Fun Fact 13493 – Pythagoras and Beans

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The stories surrounding Pythagoras and beans are almost too silly to believe. But multiple sources seem to corroborate the mathematician-philosopher’s hatred of beans as well as his belief that the gas they gave people let part of their souls escape.

Pythagoras’ Aversion to Beans

Before we explore the bean mystery, it’s essential to understand the man himself. Pythagoras lived between 570-495 BCE and is best known for the Pythagorean theorem, which relates to the three sides of a right triangle. However, he also established a religious movement known as Pythagoreanism, which combined elements of mathematics, spirituality, and philosophy.

Pythagoras held influence that extended well beyond the realm of mathematics. One of the most peculiar aspects of Pythagorean doctrine was the prohibition against consuming beans. But why did the great mathematician and his followers abstain from beans?

Central to Pythagorean belief was the doctrine of transmigration or metempsychosis. This concept posits that souls are immortal and, upon death, move into another living being.

The nature of the next life, according to this doctrine, depended on one’s actions in the previous one. Leading a virtuous life could lead to reincarnation in a higher form, while an immoral life could result in a lower one.

Beans: The Window to the Soul?

Here’s where beans enter the narrative. Multiple theories aim to explain the Pythagorean aversion to beans, and they’re all intriguing.

  1. The Resemblance Theory: Some ancient sources suggest that beans were thought to resemble the human fetus, and therefore, consuming them was akin to eating human flesh. This act could disrupt the cycle of transmigration, trapping souls and preventing them from reaching their next destination.
  2. The Flatulence Theory: Another theory hinges on the idea that beans, known for causing flatulence, would allow souls to escape from the body prematurely. In essence, eating beans might inadvertently release a soul before its time.
  3. The Blood Connection: Some Pythagoreans believed that beans and human beings were formed from the same material. It was said that if one were to bury a bean, it would turn into a human-like embryo. Thus, consuming beans was seen as a form of cannibalism.
  4. Nutritional and Digestive Reasons: Beyond mystical reasons, it’s plausible that Pythagoreans avoided beans due to their dietary practices. Beans can be hard to digest for some, leading to discomfort and health issues.

The prohibition against beans wasn’t the only dietary restriction that Pythagoreans adhered to. They followed a predominantly vegetarian diet, believing that animals had souls and consuming them would harm the cycle of transmigration.

This holistic view of all life forms underscored the interconnectedness of everything in the universe. This is also a foundational tenet of Pythagorean philosophy.

Death by Bean Field?

The association between Pythagoras and beans took a dramatic twist with accounts of his death. Several ancient sources, including the biographer Diogenes Laertius, recount a tale where Pythagoras met his end in a bean field. Fleeing from his enemies, he supposedly came across a bean field and, due to his aversion to beans, refused to cross it. This hesitation allowed his pursuers to catch up with him, leading to his demise.

While this story seems allegorical and its authenticity is debated, it underscores the profound significance beans held in Pythagoras’s life and teachings.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “From Communing With Animals to Obsessive Bean Hatred, Pythagoras Was One Weird Dude” — The Daily Beast