wtf fact

WTF Fun Fact 13373 – Moon Garden

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Sometimes it takes shedding a little moonlight on your garden to give it a magical quality. To fully appreciate the ethereal allure of the night, garden enthusiasts have embraced the concept of the moon garden.

These specially designed spaces are adorned with a selection of plants that come alive in the moon’s gentle glow, offering a captivating sensory experience after dusk.

Why build a moon garden?

The idea behind moon gardens is to create a place outdoors that naturally shines under the soft light of the moon. Sure, sunlight showcases vibrant colors, but moonlight can reveal delicate hues, silhouettes, and textures that go unnoticed during the day.

Moon gardens capitalize on subtleties, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere for those seeking a different kind of garden experience.

When planning a moon garden, it’s essential to consider plants that thrive in low light conditions and reflect the moon’s glow. White or pale-colored flowers, for instance, take center stage in these nocturnal spaces.

What to plant in your nighttime landscaping

There are plenty of plants to choose from for a night garden. Blossoms such as white roses, moonflowers, evening primroses, and jasmine emit a sweet fragrance to enhance your sensory journey.

The foliage in moon gardens is equally important, as it provides contrasting textures and shapes. Plants with silver or gray leaves, like lamb’s ear or dusty miller, stand out under the moonlight. Other options include plants with variegated foliage, which adds visual interest even when the moon is hidden behind clouds.

To enhance the atmosphere, moon garden enthusiasts often incorporate plants with night-blooming flowers. One such example is the night-blooming cereus, a cactus species that displays stunning white flowers only after the sun sets. Another favorite is the angel’s trumpet, a fragrant flower that releases a sweet scent in the evening hours.

Adding more senses

Besides the visual and olfactory delights, moon gardens also embrace the symphony of sounds that come alive at night. The gentle chirping of crickets, the occasional hoot of an owl, or the rustling of leaves can all contribute to the ambiance. So, including elements like a small water feature or wind chimes can amplify the auditory experience, creating a soothing and meditative environment.

Moon gardens are not limited to plants alone. The hardscape elements play a crucial role in enhancing the overall atmosphere. A white or pale-colored pathway, for instance, provides a radiant contrast against the dark soil, guiding visitors through the garden. Stone or marble sculptures, strategically placed under moonlight, evoke a sense of mystery and invite contemplation. Another popular feature is the inclusion of reflective surfaces, such as mirrors or metallic accents.

These elements capture and amplify the moonlight, adding a touch of shimmer to the garden. Illumination through softly lit lanterns, solar-powered lights, or strategically positioned candles can enhance the dreamlike quality of the moon garden.

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Source: “Night Blooming Plants for Moon Gardens: White Flowers That Shine in the Moonlight” — The Spruce

WTF Fun Fact 13372 – Plant Sounds

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Nature holds a hidden symphony of plant sounds. While we typically associate sound with animal communication, recent scientific research has revealed that plants also possess the ability to produce acoustic signals.

Plants have found their own unique way of vocalizing their discontent, even without possessing mouths. Recent research has revealed that stressed plants emit audible sounds that correspond to the type of adversity they are experiencing. These sounds, resulting from cavitation, occur when tiny bubbles burst and produce mini-shock waves within the plant’s vascular system. The plants make different complaints that match their specific stresses, such as dehydration or physical damage. While humans cannot hear these high-pitched sounds, they fall within the hearing range of other animals, raising questions about potential plant-to-plant communication. This discovery highlights the surprising sophistication of plants and opens up avenues for further exploration in plant bioacoustics.

The field of bioacoustics

The field of plant bioacoustics investigates the sounds produced by various plant species and their ecological significance. By studying plant sounds, scientists aim to unravel the ecological functions, adaptations, and potential communication mechanisms of these silent but expressive organisms.

Plants produce sounds through a variety of mechanisms. For instance, when certain plants experience mechanical disturbances such as wind or touch, their leaves or stems can generate rustling or creaking sounds from within. The release of gases during certain plant processes, such as photosynthesis, can produce ultrasonic vibrations.

Plant sounds as communication

Plants may use sound as a means of communication and signaling. Research has shown that some plant species emit ultrasonic clicks or vibrations in response to environmental cues. One example is the presence of insect pollinators or approaching herbivores. These acoustic signals may attract or repel certain organisms, aiding in pollination, seed dispersal, or defense strategies. During water stress or drought, some plants emit high-frequency sounds that can potentially attract predators of herbivorous insects, helping to protect the plant from excessive damage.

Studying plant acoustics

The study of plant sounds also has practical applications. Monitoring and analyzing acoustic emissions from plants can provide valuable insights into their health, growth, and stress levels. By detecting subtle changes in plant sounds, scientists and farmers can identify potential issues, assess the impact of environmental factors, and optimize cultivation practices.

The notion that plants produce sounds challenges our traditional understanding of the acoustic landscape. From the rustling of leaves to the ultrasonic vibrations emitted during crucial plant processes, the sounds of plants carry hidden messages and ecological significance

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Source: “This Is What It Sounds Like When Plants Cry” — New York Times

WTF Fun Fact 13369 – Bombing the Moon

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During the height of the Cold War in the 1950s, when tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union were at their peak, a truly audacious plan was proposed: bombing on the moon. This controversial proposal was known as “Project A119.” It was a testament to the extreme lengths humanity was willing to go to demonstrate power and assert dominance during this era.

The origins of Project A119

Project A119 was a top-secret plan devised by a group of American scientists. They were led by physicist Leonard Reiffel, who worked under the direction of the United States Air Force. The primary motivation behind the project was to showcase American technological prowess and military superiority to the world, particularly the Soviet Union.

The plan involved launching a nuclear bomb toward the moon, targeting its unexplored far side. The idea was to create a massive explosion visible from Earth, serving as a display of military might. The bomb would have been equivalent in power to the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II.

Why bombing the moon didn’t work out

Despite the audacity of the plan, scientists involved in Project A119 recognized the potential scientific value of the lunar explosion. They believed that the blast could reveal valuable information about the composition of the moon’s surface and the nature of lunar craters.

Although Project A119 was seriously considered, it never came to fruition. Concerns over the potential risks associated with the mission played a significant role in the project’s abandonment. No one knew what the consequences of bombing the moon might be.

The proposal to detonate a nuclear bomb on the moon speaks to the extreme mindset prevailing during the Cold War. It reflects the fervent desire of both the United States and the Soviet Union to showcase their technological advancements.

The plan’s abandonment highlights the importance of responsible decision-making. It’s also a testament to considering the potential environmental impacts and long-term consequences that such actions could have on Earth.

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Source: “The crazy plan to explode a nuclear bomb on the Moon” — BBC

WTF Fun Fact 13368 – Horse Diving

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Horse diving was a spectacle where trained horses would dive from high platforms into pools of water. Guided by riders, the horses leaped from platforms and landed in pools located below. The performances drew crowds of spectators, especially at the Steel Pier in Atlantic City, where it became a popular attraction.

The origins of horse diving

Horse diving involved training horses to dive from 40 to 60 feet (12 to 18 meters) platforms. Trained riders guided the horses, ensuring their safety during the descent and upon entering the water.

Horse diving traces its roots back to the late 19th century. That’s when William “Doc” Carver, a former Wild West performer, had a vision of combining horsemanship with daring dives. Carver was instrumental in training horses to perform the dives and developing the techniques necessary to ensure their safety. He worked tirelessly to refine the training process and establish a rapport between horses and riders.

The Steel Pier in Atlantic City, New Jersey, became synonymous with horse diving. The iconic amusement pier offered a perfect stage for the daring spectacle.

A daring feat

The performances showcased not only the bravery of the animals but also the bond between the horses and their riders.

To ensure the safety of the horses, the pools were carefully designed with deep water and sufficient space for the horses to land safely. The performers, including the riders, were highly trained and dedicated individuals who understood the intricacies of the sport. While accidents and injuries did occur, the community took measures to prioritize the well-being of the animals and performers.

As times changed and public perception evolved, concerns about animal welfare emerged. The popularity of horse diving gradually declined throughout the 20th century, and the last performance took place in the 1970s. Although no longer a prominent attraction, it left a lasting legacy, reminding us of the audacity and daring spirit that characterized a bygone era of entertainment.

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Source: “Remembering When Horse Diving Was an Actual Thing” — Atlas Obscura

WTF Fun Fact 13366 – Flying Chickens

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Contrary to popular belief, chickens can fly. Flying chickens aren’t a common sight, but they do possess the necessary physical adaptations for brief bursts of flight.

What’s the deal with flying chickens?

Chickens are not known for sustained or long-distance flight. However, their wings, consisting of flight feathers, primary feathers, and secondary feathers, are able to provide lift and control during short flights. Strong pectoral muscles aid in wing flapping, facilitating takeoff and maintaining altitude.

Chickens achieve flight by utilizing their wings and pectoral muscles. Flapping their wings generates the necessary lift to become airborne. However, their relatively large body size and heavy frame make any sustained flight nearly impossible.

When chickens fly

Chickens can only achieve short flights, covering distances of a few meters at a time. These flights are often initiated as a response to perceived threats, to navigate obstacles, or to reach higher roosting positions. Flight abilities are more pronounced in certain chicken breeds and younger chickens due to their agility and muscle strength.

The longest recorded flight of a chicken lasted for approximately 13 seconds. While brief compared to other bird species, it is a remarkable feat considering chickens’ general reputation as ground-dwelling birds.

Flight serves various purposes for chickens beyond locomotion. It aids in escaping predators, reaching elevated perches or roosts for safety, exploring new environments, and accessing food sources that may be out of reach on the ground.

Domesticated chickens often have reduced flight capabilities due to selective breeding for specific traits. Firstly, domesticated chicken breeds have been selectively bred over generations for specific traits, such as meat production or egg-laying abilities. This breeding process has resulted in larger body sizes and heavier frames, making sustained flight challenging. Additionally, the typical living environments for domesticated chickens, such as coops or enclosures, often lack the open spaces and elevated perches that would naturally encourage flight. Consequently, chickens tend to rely more on their remarkable ground-dwelling and foraging abilities, which are better suited to their domesticated lifestyles.

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Source: “Can Chickens Fly? (How & Why)” — Farm Animal Report

WTF Fun Fact 13365 – The Copyright to “Happy Birthday to You”

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For decades, the familiar tune of “Happy Birthday to You” was under strict copyright protection. That meant that any commercial use of the song required permission and a fee. This was the case until 2015.

The origins of “Happy Birthday to You”

The melody for “Happy Birthday to You” was composed in the late 19th century by sisters Mildred J. Hill and Patty Smith Hill. Originally known as “Good Morning to All,” the song aimed to greet children in a classroom setting.

In 1935 the Clayton F. Summy Company registered the melody and lyrics of “Happy Birthday to You” for copyright. This copyright protection granted them exclusive rights to the song. Technically, this restricted its public use without obtaining a license or paying royalties. As a result, countless public performances and recordings of the song required legal authorization.

Over the years, “Happy Birthday to You” became an iconic cultural staple, sung in homes, schools, restaurants, and even movies. Despite its widespread use, the song’s copyright remained firmly in place.

Ending the Happy Birthday copyright

The extent of the copyright’s reach became a topic of curiosity and controversy. In 2013, documentary filmmaker Jennifer Nelson sought to produce a film about the song’s history but was required to pay substantial licensing fees to include the song. Intrigued by the song’s copyright status, Nelson embarked on a legal battle to challenge its validity and uncover the truth behind this enduring musical monopoly.

In 2015, after years of legal proceedings, a federal judge ruled that the copyright claim to “Happy Birthday to You” was invalid. The court determined that the melody and lyrics of the song had long been part of the public domain. This released the song from its decades-long copyright imprisonment.

According to the Hollywood Reporter (cited below) Warner/Chappell Music, the company that held the copyright to “Happy Birthday to You,” agreed to pay a $14 million settlement in 2016. This settlement came after a class-action lawsuit challenged the validity of the copyright and sought reimbursement for years of licensing fees paid.

Entering the public domain

The resolution of the lawsuit marked a turning point, not only in the financial aspect but also in the recognition that the song rightfully belonged in the public domain. It allowed people worldwide to freely sing and share the timeless birthday anthem without any further encumbrance of licensing fees.

The release of “Happy Birthday to You” from copyright restrictions marked a significant milestone. It ensured that the song could be freely performed, recorded, and shared by people around the world.

Following the court ruling, Warner/Chappell Music faced a wave of legal claims seeking reimbursement for years of licensing fees paid. In 2016, Warner/Chappell Music agreed to settle the class-action lawsuit. They paid a $14 million settlement, finally closing the chapter on the decades-long copyright controversy.

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Source: “Warner Music Pays $14 Million to End ‘Happy Birthday’ Copyright Lawsuit” — The Hollywood Reporter

WTF Fun Fact 13364 – Honey Never Spoils

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Did you know that – so long as it’s stored correctly and not contaminated – honey never spoils? As long as it’s pure honey and it’s preserved appropriately, it can resist spoiling for thousands of years (if not indefinitely). Its remarkable longevity is evidenced by pots found in ancient Egyptian tombs.

The history of honey

Honey has been cherished since ancient times, with evidence of its consumption dating back thousands of years. The Egyptians, renowned for their mastery of preservation, held honey in high regard and utilized various techniques to ensure its longevity.

Honey’s low moisture content, acidic pH, and the presence of hydrogen peroxide-producing enzymes contribute to its natural preservation properties.

The world’s oldest honey

Archaeologists venturing into the depths of ancient Egyptian tombs in 1922 made a remarkable discovery. In King Tut’s tomb, they found a treasure trove of pots filled with honey over 3,000 years old.

These pots, carefully sealed and preserved within the protective embrace of the tombs, have defied the passage of time, remaining perfectly edible to this day. This is how we know that it’s possible that honey never spoils.

Is it true that honey never spoils?

Honey’s exceptional longevity can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, its low moisture content inhibits the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms, as most harmful pathogens require higher water content to thrive. Secondly, honey’s acidic pH, typically ranging from 3.2 to 4.5, creates an unfavorable environment for many bacteria. Lastly, bees add an enzyme called glucose oxidase to honey, which produces hydrogen peroxide—a natural antimicrobial agent.

While honey possesses incredible preservation properties, it is important to note that improper storage can impact its quality. Exposure to air, moisture, and heat can lead to crystallization, fermentation, and the growth of yeasts or molds. To maintain the freshness of honey, it is crucial to store it in a tightly sealed container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.

When honey spoils

Just because honey can last “forever,” doesn’t mean it will. Honey’s shelf life can vary depending on its moisture content, acidity, and storage conditions. Raw, unprocessed honey tends to have a longer shelf life compared to processed honey, as it retains more of its natural enzymes and antimicrobial properties. Furthermore, honey with higher acidity levels generally exhibits better preservation qualities.

Honey’s longevity also relies on its quality and source. Pure, unadulterated honey with minimal processing has a higher likelihood of maintaining its freshness over time. Additionally, honey sourced from reliable beekeepers and reputable producers ensures its authenticity and minimizes the risk of spoilage due to contamination or improper handling.

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Source: Discover the Oldest Honey Ever Found (From King Tut’s Tomb?) — AZ Animals

WTF Fun Fact 13362 – Super Mario’s Original Name

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Do you know Super Mario’s original name wasn’t Mario? We positively clutched our pearls when we found out. We can’t imagine the iconic video game character called anything else. But do you think Super Mario would be the legend he is today if his name had simply been “Jumpman”?

Mario’s original name: less than super

Super Mario, the iconic video game character loved by millions, has become synonymous with Nintendo and gaming itself. But let’s shed some light on the man behind the mustache and his journey to gaming stardom.

Super Mario was brought to life by renowned game designer Shigeru Miyamoto. Miyamoto’s vision for a new arcade game with a unique character led him to create what would become one of the most recognizable figures in gaming history.

During the early development stages, Miyamoto initially named the character “Jumpman.” While it’s pretty lame, the name Jumpman aptly described Mario’s ability to leap across obstacles and enemies. It’s just a little too on the nose.

Landlord, plumber, icon

However, it was during the game’s U.S. release that Jumpman’s name took a turn.

As the story goes, Nintendo of America’s landlord confronted the company about late rent payments while they were finishing the game. That landlord’s name was Mario Segale. Impressed by Segale’s assertiveness, Nintendo’s staff decided to honor him by renaming their beloved character. Thus, Jumpman officially became Mario, forever linking the iconic plumber to a chance encounter with a cranky landlord. (We assume they also eventually paid their rent.)

With his new name, Mario catapulted to fame. The character debuted in the arcade classic “Donkey Kong” before getting his own “Super Mario Bros.” on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Mario’s adventures are now a staple of the gaming industry and he’s demonstrated his enduring appeal and ability to captivate players across different genres and generations.

What’s in a name?

The character has made appearances in numerous spin-offs, cartoons, comics, and even a Hollywood film. His likeness and iconic catchphrases have become embedded in popular culture, making him an instantly recognizable and beloved figure around the globe.

Super Mario’s dominance shaped the future of video game design. But we’re not sure things would have been that way if Super Mario’s original name had stuck.

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Source: “‘Super Mario Bros.’ debuted 35 years ago — here’s how Mario accidentally became a gaming superstar” — CNBC

WTF Fun Fact 13361 – Olympic Tug of War

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Tug of War, a favorite childhood sport that pits two teams against each other in a test of strength and teamwork, had a brief but notable stint as an Olympic sport. Olympic Tug of War made its debut in the 1900 Paris Games. The inclusion of the sport was a reflection of the diverse range of events showcased in the early years of the modern Olympics. Organizers believed that Tug of War, with its raw physicality and team dynamics, would add excitement to the program. And we’re kind of sad it’s not there anymore!

Competitive Tug of War

Of course, Tug of War competitions at the Olympics followed a standardized set of rules. Each team consisted of eight athletes, and the objective was to pull the opposing team a certain distance across a line within a specified period of time.

If neither team achieved this, victory was awarded to the team that managed to pull their opponents the farthest.

Tug of War quickly gained popularity among spectators due to its gripping displays of strength. After all, it may not be figure skating, but it required determination, synchronization, and the ability to work together. The sport drew large crowds – and we imagine it still would today!

A playground sport goes global, then fades

Tug of War returned in the 1908 London Olympics. This time, the competition featured teams from more nations. But the United Kingdom, Sweden, and the United States were dominant.

So where did this popular sport go? Well, for all its popularity, the sport faced several challenges that ultimately led to its removal from the Olympic program. One factor was the lack of standardized weight categories, which disadvantaged lighter teams.

The removal of Tug of War from the Olympic program can also be attributed to shifting priorities. The Games evolved into a platform that emphasized individual athletic prowess, precision, and specific skill sets, rather than collective strength and team coordination.

The end of an era

Sweden holds the distinction of winning the most Olympic Tug of War medals, with five golds, one silver, and two bronzes. Sadly, the 1912 Stockholm Olympics was the last Games to feature Tug of War, marking the end of its Olympic journey.

Interestingly, the gold medals awarded to Tug of War champions were among the heaviest in Olympic history, weighing approximately 324 grams (11.4 ounces).

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Source: “Olympics History” — Tug of War Association