Cave giant: Beneath a remote stretch of jungle in central Vietnam lies the world's largest known cave, a vast underground network named Son Doong. What sets it apart isn't just its size, but the strange, otherworldly features inside, like thick forests growing where the ceiling collapsed, and rivers that vanish into darkness. The cave includes towering rock formations, some as tall as buildings, and wide spaces big enough to fit aircraft. A local resident first stumbled upon it and researchers later mapped it, revealing an interior shaped by underground water over millions of years. To protect its untouched environment, access is limited. Even now, parts of the cave remain unexplored, leaving plenty of mystery underground.

Wave chaser: Across coastlines and rough seas, Pegleg Bennett has turned his unique path into a story of grit. Losing part of his leg as a child didn't slow him down, but became part of how he shaped his approach to riding waves. He crafted his own surf-adapted prosthetics, even drilling into them to improve movement. With each trip to new shores, he not only refined his skills but also helped push adaptive surfing into the spotlight. Using gear made from high-performance materials, he continues to lead by example, both in competition and as a mentor. Those around him, including others with physical challenges, have caught waves under his guidance. For him, it's not about limits but about what comes next.

Primate parenting: In Bristol, England, two young gorillas found an unexpected caregiver when their biological mothers couldn't raise them. Alan Toyne stepped in, blending human support with gorilla behaviour training. He wore textured vests to simulate fur and helped them eat alongside his own meals to mimic troop routines. Rather than isolating the infants, Toyne made sure they spent time with the other gorillas, building familiarity and social skills. The goal wasn't just survival, but preparing them for a proper return to their group. After months of care, they transitioned to surrogate gorilla mothers. What began as an emergency response became a lasting example of cross-species compassion.

Island evolution: Two types of palm trees evolved separately while growing side by side on Lord Howe Island, off Australia's coast. Scientists found that they bloom at different times depending on whether they grow in rocky or sandy soil, each type shaped by the microbes living underground. These changes created distinct species, supporting a rare concept called sympatric speciation. The palms likely came from mainland Australia and gradually diverged as they adapted to their surroundings. Researchers believe soil fungi influenced this split by forming unique bonds with each group. While Charles Darwin focused on isolation driving evolution, this case shows it can happen in close quarters, too.

Always be a little kinder than necessary. ~ James M. Barrie

We should always allow some time to elapse, for time discloses the truth ~ Seneca

Wriggle & Rhyme, Manukau Library, every Tuesday during school-term. Join us for a programme that promotes active movement and brain development for babies and toddlers. For ages 0-2 years old.

Live Stronger for Longer: Community strength and balance classes are a great opportunity to complete regular exercise whilst socialising and having fun with like-minded people in your community - www.livestronger.org.nz

Free notices for not for profits papakura@coffeenews.co.nz

1. All insects have antennae - T/F?

2. What did Fred Flinstone use to power his car?

3. This element of sunlight causes a sunburn.

4. Hippocrates wrote his oath for lawyers, doctors, or engineers?

5. The Landlord's Game was the original name for _____.

Stone king: Western Australia's Mount Augustus is known as the world's largest rock. Rising dramatically from surrounding plains, its central ridge stretches nearly 8 kilometres. Its impressive size and striking presence make it an unforgettable landmark.

Carbon clues: Ticks don't need sight to find people. Instead, they track the carbon dioxide we exhale. Along with body heat and movement, the scent helps them zero in on a host with remarkable accuracy. It's one reason ticks are so hard to avoid.

Not-quite solid: Glass may look solid, but unlike ice, its molecules never lock into place. Instead, they slow down into a dense, disordered jumble, leaving scientists debating whether glass is really just an extremely sluggish liquid.

Frosty bonus: When temperatures drop, carrots boost their sugar to shield their cells from freezing. This natural defence helps prevent damage. As a bonus, this gives us sweeter carrots to enjoy throughout the cold months.

Moon mementos: NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter has photographed shadows of several Apollo flags still standing on the Moon, even though Earth's telescopes can't pick them out. Years of intense sunlight have likely faded the flags to white.

How does an octopus go into battle? Fully armed.

A turkey farm installed a gobblestone driveway.

There's nothing more odd than numbers not divisible by two.

Tom: Have you ever seen a catfish? Jerry: Sure! Tom: How did it hold the rod?

When a fisherman takes a container with him, he wants to fillet.

If you try a jigsaw puzzle that is too hard, don't go to pieces.

1. True 2. His feet 3. UV light 4. Doctors 5. Monopoly