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Why are trainers hung over power lines?
The image of shoes slung over telephones lines is one we’re all familiar with – it’s the topic of many an urban myth. But why does it actually happen?

The plant once linked to swingers is back, stealing the spotlight – and there’s so much you can do with it
Once burdened by a lingering urban legend, pampas grass is quietly reclaiming its place in gardens and homes

"I’ve always loved a ‘permissive path’ – it’s always seemed like the nicest of invitations."
Land managers and farmers are critically aware of the knowledge gap between most people and farming, and that the countryside is for all.
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The curious case of the dog poo bag in the tree: a very modern countryside mystery explained
Why do we bag up dog poo and stick it in a tree? The surprisingly complex psychology behind this phenomenon turns out to be less about laziness – and more about humans’ brain psychology

Impossibly cute sloths and a colossal swarm of mayflies amongst 27 winners of the Close-up Photographer of the Year awards
The winners of this year's Close-up Photographer of the Year have been announced, with the photographer Ross Gudgeon scooping the top prize with their entry 'Fractal Forest', showing cauliflower soft coral in exquisite detail. Named for its characteristic cauliflower-like appearance, this species of coral has numerous small, bump-like polyps that give it a distinctive texture. The international competition attracted more than 12,000 entries from 63 countries, skillfully judged by 22 expert photographers, naturalists and editors. The judges selected winners and the Top 100 images across 11 categories. Co-founder Tracy Calder noted: "This was the toughest competition yet. The winning image

Instagram is killing the landscape: why the search for ‘likes’ is destroying our beauty spots
Social media is having a profound impact on our natural landscapes, with small areas decimated by visitors despite the lack of infrastructure to accommodate them. Here's what's going on – and some of the worst-affected UK beauty spots

Thought this Winter Olympic sport was Canadian? This is its real origin story – and why its most important element is still made from one tiny Scottish island
Often mistaken for a Canadian creation, curling’s roots are firmly Scottish – and Britain even claimed the sport’s first Olympic gold

I see caffeine supplements are all the rage in sport. Why? Is there more to it than marketing?
With caffeine gums, gels, liquids and capsules now dominating the supplement market (and the sidelines of football pitches), we investigate whether they ACTUALLY do what they promise

The death-defying rescues and courageous crews that have saved 144,000 souls at sea
Discover 12 of the most amazing moments in the RNLI's 200-year history, including unusual gifts and a record-breaking rescue that saved 456 lives.

Discover some of the best locations to ski and snowboard in the UK this winter
Hit the slopes without leaving the UK with our ultimate guide to the best ski resorts, hidden gems, and scenic spots where you can catch some fresh powder

King Charles III is throwing deer bones and dead trees into Scotland's rivers. It's all part of a genius restoration plan
In an unconventional yet remarkably innovative step, the royal Balmoral Estate launched a bold initiative to revive its riverways... and it's working

Solve your Valentine's Day dilemma with this easy gift for him
We've found quality gifts that last all year and give you a discount

Top 10 hidden islands for the perfect coastal escape
From marine life marvels, to remote sandy shell-strewn beaches, if you’re looking to escape and enjoy one of the UK’s thousands of islands, here’s your guide to the best.

How can I keep my brain sharp as I age?
Ageing brings inevitable challenges, both physically and mentally, however there are scientifically backed ways to keep your brain sharp as you age.

Are there any octopuses in UK waters?
Octopuses are highly sensitive to changes in their environment – which means they often have population 'blooms' in surprising locations...

"They’re conserving our national heritage and the ancient routes that have connected communities for centuries" – the heroic footpath patrol saving our trails
Our beautiful footpaths are at risk of disappearing. Here are the local heroes committed to saving them from extinction.

Dog food humans could eat? How a dog's dinner just got an upgrade
Make the switch to fresh

We've found the best boots you won't need to replace for years
Invest in a pair that actually lasts

Which trees are most prone to lightning strike?
Is it the tallest tree that's most at risk of lightning?

"What was a nothing magics itself into a something: a swarm, a wave, a flying carpet. They shimmer and billow, flutter and plummet..."
Nature can help us let go of stress and feel connected to something bigger than our problems. Here's how to reconnect with nature responsibly.

“We are a part of it, not apart from it.” Watch the trailer for King Charles III’s new environmental documentary
King Charles III hopes to inspire people to work with nature in the upcoming documentary Finding Harmony: A King's Vision

Where is The Traitors Ireland filmed? Inside the castle used for the nail-biting reality TV show
The Traitors Ireland has been a hit among viewers – but who hosts it and where is it filmed?

"Unforgettable": this footage of Britain’s rarest breeding raptor will blow you away
Wildlife filmmaker shares gorgeous footage of Montagu’s harriers on the hunt for prey.

Where is Ted Lasso filmed? All the filming locations used in the beloved football comedy-drama
Ted Lasso is returning for a fourth series – but where is the popular TV drama filmed?