The first published live observations of the rare goblin shark (Mitsukurina owstoni) in its natural deep ocean habitat were reported in a new paper by a University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa-led team of oceanographers. In the past, goblin sharks were only filmed and reported alive after being hooked on a fishing line and hauled to the surface, where divers could observe them and where they soon died. The new study, published in Journal of Fish Biology, documents two live observations of one of the most elusive but iconic sharks on the planet—one at a seamount near Jarvis Island and another on the slope of the Tonga Trench. 

A new study led by researchers from Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria and Deakin University has uncovered alpine species may be more vulnerable to climate change as their seeds rely on specific temperature cues and seasonal signals to germinate. 

The American Ornithological Society (AOS) annually recognizes individuals and groups whose ornithological research, contributions to the science and practice of ornithology, and service to the AOS merit special distinction. This year’s recipients exemplify that commitment, advancing both the scientific study and conservation of birds, and the AOS mission. The 2026 recipients will accept their awards at the AOS annual meeting (AOS 2026) in Amherst, Massachusetts, USA, in August.

Researchers detected pathogenic species of Sporothrix in the internal organs of mammals, birds, and reptiles that were killed by vehicles on Brazilian roads. The study reveals a new reservoir for fungi and highlights the need for surveillance.

To the point:

Fruit first, fancy footwork later: A new study finds the courtship dances of the manakins – one of the most charismatic groups of birds on Earth – trace back to changes deep in their ancestry and may be linked to their fruit-rich diet.

Same answer, different routes: Manakins re-evolved a sense of sweet taste, as hummingbirds, songbirds and woodpeckers each did separately, by repurposing the receptor for savory taste.

Genome-enabled discovery: Manakins are one of the most intensively-studied groups of birds: this first set of genomes provides resources to the community to explore the genomic changes underlying their unique behaviors and physiologies.

A new Concordia-led study shows that western lowland gorillas can learn to trust humans, even after years of poaching pressure. Researchers in Cameroon followed a gorilla group for eight years and found fear and aggression gradually gave way to curiosity and indifference. The findings suggest long-term habituation can support conservation, biodiversity and ecotourism in formerly disturbed areas.

Why do some bird songs endure for generations while others fade away? An FAU study suggests the answer may lie in the landscape itself. Researchers found that the most common songs of Bachman’s sparrows travel through natural habitats with greater clarity than rarer songs, raising the possibility that environmental acoustics help shape which vocal traditions are learned, shared and passed down over time.