Latest news with #Oceanian
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Experts celebrate as trail camera captures rare footage of elusive species not seen in decades: 'Such a large and striking animal'
A researcher has made history after securing the first-ever scientific observation of an animal that had eluded scientists for decades. During a six-month expedition on the island of Papua New Guinea, František Vejmělka, a doctoral candidate from the Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences and the University of South Bohemia, spotted the Mallomys istapantap, also known as the subalpine woolly rat. As IFL Science noted, Vejmělka documented the sighting in a study published in the journal Mammalia According to New Atlas, the woolly rat is one of the largest murine rodents in the world, and the study said it is the largest rodent of the Australian and Oceanian zoogeographic regions. Murine rodents are a large group of "Old World" rats and mice that comprises over 500 species, per Animal Diversity Web. As one of the largest murine rodents, the woolly rat had never been scientifically discovered in the wild since the species was first described in 1989 using a historic specimen from a museum. Vejmělka utilized camera traps and help from indigenous hunters to obtain the rare footage of the woolly rat. "The combination of modern and traditional detection methods enriched by the immense traditional hunting knowledge of Indigenous communities resulted in the first specimen records of this remarkable rodent in over 30 years and the first scientific observations of living animals," the study read, per IFL Science. In a statement, Vejmělka acknowledged the significance of the discovery and the importance of research ventures. "It's astonishing that such a large and striking animal has remained so poorly studied," Vejmělka said. "How much more is there to discover about the biodiversity of tropical mountains?" Thanks to trail cameras, many research expeditions can obtain vital information that not only captures rare sightings but also helps gauge the health and function of secluded ecosystems and habitats. This can go a long way in studying delicate food chains without interfering or interacting with nearby wildlife. Do you think more places of worship should embrace clean energy? Yes — it sets a positive example Only if it saves money No opinion Absolutely not Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Conservation efforts can significantly impact our well-being by preserving natural resources and promoting healthy ecosystems. Conservationism can also directly benefit human health by ensuring healthy food chains. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Scoop
26-05-2025
- Sport
- Scoop
Kerr Wins In Rabat – First Diamond League Victory For 2025 As Kiwi Contingent Impresses On World Stage
Press Release – Athletics New Zealand Kerr continued his early-season form with a clean scorecard through 2.16m, 2.21m, and 2.25m, securing the lead ahead of a strong field that included JuVaughn Harrison (USA) and fellow Oceanian Yual Reath (AUS). Hamish Kerr secured New Zealand's top result at the Rabat Diamond League, claiming his first Diamond League win of 2025 in the men's high jump. Competing at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, the fourth stop on this year's Diamond League circuit, Kiwis featured across five disciplines against some of the world's best in one of athletics' premier global series. Kerr continued his early-season form with a clean scorecard through 2.16m, 2.21m, and 2.25m, securing the lead ahead of a strong field that included JuVaughn Harrison (USA) and fellow Oceanian Yual Reath (AUS). When no athlete managed to clear the next height of 2.28m, Kerr was awarded victory on countback. Kerr relished the competition in Rabat 'The crowd was great and it's my first time in Africa, I'm already looking forward being back next year.' 'Just being patient this season, I feel like I'm building nicely, each comp we're learning and developing and pushing a bit deeper into the curve and the run up….I'm very happy with where I'm at, obviously wanting a little bit more but that's the nature of the beast. I'm Looking forward to Rome [Diamond League] in a couple of weeks.' Said Kerr, reflecting on his performances in Rabat. In the women's pole vault, Imogen Ayris recorded her best-ever Diamond League finish, clearing 4.50m to place fourth. After comfortably clearing 4.30m, she made an impressive first-time clearance at 4.50m before exiting the competition with three attempts at 4.63m. Olivia McTaggart also opened at 4.30m, needing three attempts to progress, and finished ninth overall after being unable to clear 4.50m. Tom Walsh, coming off a strong second-place finish in Zagreb, continued his early-season campaign with a best throw of 21.41m in round five to finish sixth in the men's shot put. The field featured eight athletes throwing over 21 metres, including world-leading competitors like Payton Otterdahl (USA), Joe Kovacs (USA), and Leonardo Fabbri (ITA). In the women's 100m, Zoe Hobbs clocked 11.16s to finish fifth, which was just shy of her season's best of 11.11 set at the Jennian Homes New Zealand Track & Field Championships. Jamaican sprint star Shericka Jackson took the win in 11.04. Sam Tanner kicked off his international season in a competitive men's 1500m field. He sat at the back of the pack through the early stages but closed strongly, overtaking five athletes over the final lap to finish 13th in 3:34.71. The race was won by USA's Jonah Koech in a meeting record and world lead of 3:31.43. Next up on the Diamond League calendar for the Kiwis is the Rome Diamond League on 6 June, with Tanner, Kerr and Walsh set to return. Hobbs and Walsh will compete on the World Athletics Continental Tour at the Irena Szewińska Memorial in Bydgoszcz, Poland on the 30th of May. 1
Scoop
25-05-2025
- Sport
- Scoop
Kerr Wins In Rabat – First Diamond League Victory For 2025 As Kiwi Contingent Impresses On World Stage
Hamish Kerr secured New Zealand's top result at the Rabat Diamond League, claiming his first Diamond League win of 2025 in the men's high jump. Competing at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, the fourth stop on this year's Diamond League circuit, Kiwis featured across five disciplines against some of the world's best in one of athletics' premier global series. Kerr continued his early-season form with a clean scorecard through 2.16m, 2.21m, and 2.25m, securing the lead ahead of a strong field that included JuVaughn Harrison (USA) and fellow Oceanian Yual Reath (AUS). When no athlete managed to clear the next height of 2.28m, Kerr was awarded victory on countback. Kerr relished the competition in Rabat 'The crowd was great and it's my first time in Africa, I'm already looking forward being back next year.' 'Just being patient this season, I feel like I'm building nicely, each comp we're learning and developing and pushing a bit deeper into the curve and the run up….I'm very happy with where I'm at, obviously wanting a little bit more but that's the nature of the beast. I'm Looking forward to Rome [Diamond League] in a couple of weeks.' Said Kerr, reflecting on his performances in Rabat. In the women's pole vault, Imogen Ayris recorded her best-ever Diamond League finish, clearing 4.50m to place fourth. After comfortably clearing 4.30m, she made an impressive first-time clearance at 4.50m before exiting the competition with three attempts at 4.63m. Olivia McTaggart also opened at 4.30m, needing three attempts to progress, and finished ninth overall after being unable to clear 4.50m. Tom Walsh, coming off a strong second-place finish in Zagreb, continued his early-season campaign with a best throw of 21.41m in round five to finish sixth in the men's shot put. The field featured eight athletes throwing over 21 metres, including world-leading competitors like Payton Otterdahl (USA), Joe Kovacs (USA), and Leonardo Fabbri (ITA). In the women's 100m, Zoe Hobbs clocked 11.16s to finish fifth, which was just shy of her season's best of 11.11 set at the Jennian Homes New Zealand Track & Field Championships. Jamaican sprint star Shericka Jackson took the win in 11.04. Sam Tanner kicked off his international season in a competitive men's 1500m field. He sat at the back of the pack through the early stages but closed strongly, overtaking five athletes over the final lap to finish 13th in 3:34.71. The race was won by USA's Jonah Koech in a meeting record and world lead of 3:31.43. Next up on the Diamond League calendar for the Kiwis is the Rome Diamond League on 6 June, with Tanner, Kerr and Walsh set to return. Hobbs and Walsh will compete on the World Athletics Continental Tour at the Irena Szewińska Memorial in Bydgoszcz, Poland on the 30th of May. 1
NDTV
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
From Mai Tai To Pina Colada, Explore Tiki Cocktails And Take A Sip Of Beachside Paradise
Few things evoke the spirit of tropical escape quite like a tiki cocktail, especially when served in an intriguing tiki mug. Often shaped like ancient Polynesian idols, skulls, or hula girls, these collectable ceramic vessels are as much a part of the experience as the drink itself. Adorned with umbrellas, fruit skewers, and even flames, tiki cocktails don't just quench your thirst, they whisk you to a far-off paradise, one sip at a time. But have you ever wondered what exactly is 'tiki' and the 'tiki cocktail' genre? This weekend, sip on these flavourful cocktail histories (metaphorically), along with actually drinking fabulous tiki drinks with your friends and family. The Origins Of Tiki Culture Tiki culture draws inspiration from Oceanian art and mythology, stretching across the Pacific from Polynesia and Australasia to the Caribbean and Hawaii. The term "Tiki" comes from Maori mythology, where Tiki is considered the first man, often depicted as a figure worn as a pendant called the hei-tiki. While these symbols held deep cultural meaning, they were later adopted and commercialised in Western pop culture. Also Read: 10 Most Loved Cocktails Across The Globe The Birth Of The Tiki Cocktail The tiki cocktail emerged in 1933 with the opening of Don's Beachcomber in Hollywood, a Polynesian-themed bar and restaurant. This lively space served exotic rum-based punches with the vibe of a tropical movie set with flaming torches, bamboo furniture, and vibrant fabrics. The bar was quite popular and even frequented by celebrities. The signature concoctions, dubbed "Rhum Rhapsodies," were crafted with rum, fresh fruit juices, and flavoured syrups. These drinks were often served in creative vessels like hollowed-out pineapples or coconuts, elevating both their taste and visual appeal. The Allure Of Tiki Vessels By the 1950s, the now-iconic tiki mug became a staple of tiki bars. These elaborately decorated ceramic mugs were designed to resemble Polynesian deities or other tropical motifs. Beyond mugs, tiki drinks are also popularly served in carved pineapples or dramatic, fire-topped communal bowls with extra-long straws for group sipping. It's not just about flavour, it's about spectacle. 5 Iconic Tiki Cocktails You Should Try: Now that you understand tiki cocktails, it's time to try some of the most iconic tiki cocktails. 1. Pina Colada Pina Colada is so popular that many do not know it is actually a tiki cocktail. A classic from Puerto Rico, this creamy cocktail blends rum with pineapple juice and sweet coconut cream. Add a splash of lime for extra zest. 2. Mai Tai Arguably the most iconic tiki drink, the Mai Tai mixes dark and light rum with orange liqueur, lime juice, and orgeat syrup (almonds, sugar, orange flower water). A delicious balance of citrus and almond, this cocktail is a tiki essential. 3. Mojito Hailing from Havana, the classic and beloved Mojito is refreshingly simple, made with white rum, mint, lime, and sugar topped with soda. It is the perfect cocktail for hot summer days. 4. Rum Runner This tiki cocktail combines rum, banana liqueur, blackberry liqueur, grenadine, and tropical fruit juices. The legend goes that this fabulous combination was invented by accident at a tiki bar when the bartender combined all old leftover stock to make room for fresh ingredients. Also Read: Shandy, Anyone? The Ultimate Summer Cocktail You Will Want To Sip 5. Painkiller Dark rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and cream of coconut come together in this tiki classic, garnished with a dash of grated nutmeg. This drink is a twist on the classic Pina Colada and is extremely refreshing for hot summer days. Unwind this weekend with some tiki drinks that invite you to slow down and soak in the island vibes, no matter where you are. Advertisement About Jigyasa Kakwani Jigyasa finds her solace through writing, a medium she is exploring to make the world more informed and curious with every story published. She is always up for exploring new cuisines, but her heart comes back to the comforting ghar-ka-khana. For the latest food news, health tips and recipes, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and YouTube. Tags: Tiki Cocktail Weekend Show full article Comments
Korea Herald
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Korea Herald
S. Korea, US, Japan hold talks to reaffirm 'unwavering' commitment to trilateral cooperation
Diplomats from South Korea, the United States and Japan convened their trilateral secretariat managing board in Washington on Monday to reaffirm the three countries' "unwavering" commitment to advancing three-way cooperation, the State Department said. Yi Won-woo, deputy director-general for North American affairs at Seoul's foreign ministry; US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for China, Japan, Korea, Mongolia and Taiwan Kevin Kim; and Akihiro Okochi, deputy director-general for Asian and Oceanian affairs at Japan's foreign ministry, led the meeting of the Trilateral Coordinating Secretariat Managing Board. "The meeting underscored the shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific and the importance of institutionalizing collaboration across economic, security, and people-to-people domains," the department said in a media note. Board members took stock of recent progress on trilateral cooperation efforts and discussed the next steps to enhance coordination, increase information sharing and strengthen joint responses to regional and global challenges, the department said. "The Managing Board emphasized continued support for the Secretariat's work in operationalizing trilateral outcomes and sustaining momentum across priority lines of effort," it said. In November, the three countries announced the establishment of the secretariat to institutionalize trilateral cooperation in the face of regional and global challenges, including North Korea's advancing nuclear and missile threats, Russia's war in Ukraine and China's growing assertiveness. (Yonhap)
