Tuesday, 7 May 2024

What's In a Critter's Name? 49. Meerkat

This name's probable origin is 'markata', a Sanskrit word meaning monkey. It was picked up by European explorers, who altered it to 'meerkat', a Dutch-inspired word from 'meer' (lake) and 'kat' (cat). Simples!

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Sandwich Island Saga 37. Water, Water Everywhere?

The Hawaiian Islands are very dependent on aquifers for freshwater. Their current status is Very Dry. There isn't sufficient rainfall an...