Falconry is an ancient form of hunting and sport, dating back four thousand years. Nobles and commoners alike practiced falconry, but nowadays, it’s a niche pursuit; in Texas, a little under 400 licenced falconers remain. This relationship between humans and raptors works thanks to a careful balancing act of hunger. Charlie Alvis, a falconer, explains that if one feeds their falcon too much, the bird has little motivation to hunt, and will likely venture off to a tree to rest with its full stomach, sometimes never returning. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
