Tiny Fijian bee faces 99% decline
A tiny bee species in Fiji, about the size of a grain of rice, has suffered an estimated 99 per cent population decline over the past 150 years, according to researchers from the University of Wollongong in Australia.
The Fijian masked bee (Hylaeus navai) was discovered only two years ago. Researchers believe climate change, habitat loss and invasive species, including the African tulip tree and European honey bee, may be contributing to its decline. The bee’s habitat has shrunk to just 1.4 to 2.4 per cent of Fiji’s land area.
Hackers turn supermarket freezers into ovens
Hackers in France targeted the internet-connected freezers and refrigerators of more than 250 supermarket branches in France, causing large amounts of food to spoil.
The attack took place overnight, affecting 150 Intermarché stores, 80 Carrefour stores and 25 Monoprix stores. By the following morning, some freezers had been running at temperatures above 120°F (49°C) for more than six hours. Intermarché reported losses worth tens of millions of dollars.
The unusual attack is under investigation. The incident highlights why internet-connected equipment needs regular security updates, even when it is something as ordinary as a supermarket freezer.
World’s largest pop-up book goes on display
The Los Angeles Public Library, California, is displaying the world’s largest pop-up book as part of its 100th-anniversary celebrations.
Titled Luceros y Penumbras, meaning Starlight and Shadows, the book measures 15.41 feet by 20.01 feet when fully opened, with some pop-up designs reaching 11 feet high.
Artist Daniel González created the book, with paper engineering by Matthew Reinhart and Ann Marshall. Because of its enormous size, a team of 10 people is needed to turn its pages. The book is on display at the Richard J. Riordan Central Library.
Grandma holds plank for five hours
A 61-year-old Canadian fitness enthusiast, DonnaJean Wilde, broke her own world record by holding an abdominal plank for five hours at the Huntsman World Senior Games in Utah, USA.
Wilde set her previous Guinness World Record of four hours, 30 minutes and 11 seconds in 2024. She attempted the new record during the opening ceremony of the games, which celebrate the sporting achievements of people aged 50 and above.
Kyle Case, chief executive of the games, said Wilde’s achievement showed that people can continue doing the things they love as they grow older.
Published in Dawn, Young World, November 7th, 2026
