Plastic waste in the oceans is releasing an additive that may be “sexually exciting” hermit crabs, according to a new study. The team from University of Hull found that waters off the North Yorkshire coast contain a chemical called oleamide leaking from plastics, which is increasing the respiration rate among the hermit crab population. They said that “Love Island fever has gripped the nation in recent weeks” but this is “a very different type of attraction”.
Giuliani selling messages for $199
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Upside-down goose was showing off
Experts say that a goose pictured flying upside was doing it to show off to his friends. Amateur photographer Vincent Cornelissen posted an image of the bird on his Instagram page of a goose cruising upside down in Arnhem, Netherlands. Bird experts say the manoeuvre in the viral image is known as whiffling. Cornelissen added: “They do it to brag to their peers. Like, look at me!”
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The 8 best dark comedies of the 21st centuryFrom Santa Claus to suicide terrorism, these movies skewered big, taboo subjects
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France’s ‘red hands’ trial highlights alleged Russian disruption operationsUNDER THE RADAR Attacks on religious and cultural institutions around France have authorities worried about Moscow’s effort to sow chaos in one of Europe’s political centers
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Crossword: October 30, 2025The Week's daily crossword
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Sanae Takaichi: Japan’s Iron Lady set to be the country’s first woman prime ministerIn the Spotlight Takaichi is a member of Japan’s conservative, nationalist Liberal Democratic Party
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Russia is ‘helping China’ prepare for an invasion of TaiwanIn the Spotlight Russia is reportedly allowing China access to military training
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Interpol arrests hundreds in Africa-wide sextortion crackdownIN THE SPOTLIGHT A series of stings disrupts major cybercrime operations as law enforcement estimates millions in losses from schemes designed to prey on lonely users
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China is silently expanding its influence in American citiesUnder the Radar New York City and San Francisco, among others, have reportedly been targeted
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How China uses 'dark fleets' to circumvent trade sanctionsThe Explainer The fleets are used to smuggle goods like oil and fish
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One year after mass protests, why are Kenyans taking to the streets again?today's big question More than 60 protesters died during demonstrations in 2024
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What happens if tensions between India and Pakistan boil over?TODAY'S BIG QUESTION As the two nuclear-armed neighbors rattle their sabers in the wake of a terrorist attack on the contested Kashmir region, experts worry that the worst might be yet to come
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Why Russia removed the Taliban's terrorist designationThe Explainer Russia had designated the Taliban as a terrorist group over 20 years ago
