Sick ants invite self-sacrifice to save colony: "Come and kill me"
Ant colonies act as one "super-organism" which works to ensure the survival of all, according to a team of scientists.
Insects
Prehistoric insects trapped in amber give glimpse into ancient life
Scientists have discovered prehistoric insects preserved in amber in South America for the first time.
Number of butterflies decreasing across U.S.
From 2000 to 2020, there was a 22% decrease nationwide in butterflies. A Michigan State University study released Monday reveals that butterfly populations in the Midwest are dwindling even faster, and no butterfly species has increased in that region in the last three decades. Jericka Duncan reports.
Nature: Honeybees
We leave you this Sunday Morning with an up-close (and sting-free) look at honeybees in Hollywood, Florida. Videographer: Charles Schultz
Eye on America: Protecting ecosystems, and more
We meet a group of scientists in Colorado innovating ways to protect the nation's food supply. And travel to Georgia to see the legacy of schools that educated African American in the segregated south. Then visit Cape Canaveral to pay tribute to the Apollo 1 crew we lost 55 years ago. Watch these stories and more on "Eye on America" with host Michelle Miller.
Ancient wasp snatched prey like Venus flytrap, scientists say
"I've seen a lot of strange insects, but this has to be one of the most peculiar-looking ones I've seen in a while," said one entomologist.
Texas warning of "maneater" screwworms that lay eggs in flesh
Just one fly can lay up to 300 eggs at a time and is drawn "to the odor of a wound or natural opening on a live, warm-blooded animal."
Violations at plant linked to listeria outbreak
CBS News has obtained documents that show federal inspectors flagged dozens of violations that included insects, mold and mildew at a Boar's Head plant in Virginia linked to a listeria outbreak responsible for at least eight deaths.
Cicadas come with an itchy pest — tiny mites that can cause rashes
Hundreds of thousands of the tiny wind-soaring and itch-inducing critters can fall from trees every day and are packed with a venom that can paralyze prey 166,000 times their size.
Meet the blue-banded bee
Colorful blue-banded bees are known for their love of lavender and blue objects. They are found across most of Australia, India, Papua New Guinea and other areas in East Asia. Unlike some bees, members of this species live in solitary nests that they build near others, according to the Australian Museum.
Micro communities offer homeless Americans safe shelter in growing number of cities
Amid rising homelessness rates, city officials across nation are embracing rapid housing options emphasizing three factors: small, quick and cheap.
Giant flying Joro spiders spread in U.S.
Joro spiders are an invasive species that arrived in Georgia more than a decade ago, and now experts say they're creeping, crawling and apparently parachuting their way into the Northeast.
Can you eat cicadas? Yes – and here are 3 recipes to try.
You deserve a treat. And this spring, Mother Nature is providing a seemingly endless supply – trillions of cicadas.
Bumblebee nests are under attack – and it's killing their babies
There's a newly-determined "major factor" in declining bumblebee populations – and it's attacking their nests.
Cicadas arrive in Georgia and South Carolina
It might not be summer yet, but the sounds of the season have already arrived. CBS News national correspondent Dave Malkoff traveled to the Georgia-South Carolina border, where one of two broods of periodical cicadas expected to arise this year in a historic emergence convergence is already molting and traveling to the treetops to mate.
It has begun: Trillions of cicadas emerge
Trillions of cicadas are emerging in some parts of the country after laying dormant for more than a decade. In Illinois, two broods will co-emerge for the first time in over 200 years. The collective noise from the insects can be as loud as a jet engine. Jonathan L. Larson, extension entomologist for the University of Kentucky, joined CBS News to discuss the emergence.
Trillions of cicadas could emerge this spring
Scientists are expecting billions, and possibly trillions, of cicadas to emerge this spring. It's expected to be the largest number of the noisy bugs seen since the early 1800s. CBS affiliate WDJT's Emily Fannon reports.
What to expect from the 2024 cicada invasion
Two cicada broods are expected to make a simultaneous comeback this spring and summer for the first time in over 200 years. The cicadas will likely emerge across 16 states mainly in the South and Midwest. Matt Kasson, associate professor of mycology and plant pathology at West Virginia University, joined CBS News to discuss the emergence.
Hyper-sexual "zombie cicadas" expected to emerge this spring
The infected cicadas bizarrely act like nothing is wrong, even though a third of their body has been replaced by fungus.
"Cicada-geddon" insect invasion will be biggest in centuries
Trillions of red-eyed periodical cicadas are about to emerge in numbers not seen in many years. Here's where to expect them.
The USDA wants you to destroy these invasive fuzzy, muddy masses
The invasive species have the ability to "attack or defoliate hundreds of tree and plant species," the USDA warns.
Insect species at risk
Insects are responsible for pollinating three quarters of global crops and forming the backbone of the food chain. But scientists estimate that about 40% of insect species are in decline, and a third are endangered.
Researchers warn of climate change's effects on insect populations
Scientists estimate that 40% of insect species are in decline, and a third are endangered.
These "bee bus stops" are looking to save pollinators
Bus stop coverings are getting replaced with "living roofs" made with native plants to help provide food for dying species and help people stay cool amid rising temperatures.
Screaming cicadas are coming back in "once in a lifetime" event
This will be the first time since the Louisiana Purchase in 1803 that these broods of noisy, flying insects will emerge from underground.
Live
Iran lashes out with missiles as Israel says war still intensifying
Iran retaliates for Israel's latest assassinations as Trump and Netanyahu give no indication the war is about to let up, 19 days in.
Trump hasn't decided on sending Americans after Iran's nuclear material, sources say
The Pentagon has prepared multiple options for President Trump as potential next steps in the Iran war.
DOJ blocked release of secret Epstein drug probe file, Sen. Wyden says
Sen. Ron Wyden says he believes the government had "ample evidence" that Epstein was involved in drug trafficking.
Exclusive
FBI, IRS to probe nonprofit groups for domestic terrorism links, sources say
In December, Attorney General Pam Bondi ordered law enforcement officials to prioritize efforts to probe and prosecute groups and individuals belonging to the antifa movement or are deemed "extremist."
House Democrats try to force vote to fund DHS, but not ICE and CBP
Democrats would have to convince at least four Republicans to join their discharge petition to force a floor vote.
Dolores Huerta alleges assault by Cesar Chavez amid abuse claims
Allegations of abuse of women and girls by union leader Cesar Chavez were first reported by the New York Times on Wednesday.
Sen. Rand Paul confronts Sen. Markwayne Mullin at heated hearing
Sen. Markwayne Mullin appeared before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee as the Senate considers his confirmation to replace Kristi Noem as DHS secretary.
Federal Reserve holds interest rates steady, citing economic uncertainty
Fed officials are grappling with a host of economic challenges, from stubborn inflation to a slowing job market.
Official warns some airports could shut down if TSA sick calls climb
Acting deputy TSA administrator Adam Stahl says the situation will get worse the longer the agency and the Department of Homeland Security don't receive funding.
U.S.
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Federal Reserve holds interest rates steady, citing economic uncertainty
Fed officials are grappling with a host of economic challenges, from stubborn inflation to a slowing job market.
DOJ blocked release of secret Epstein drug probe file, Sen. Wyden says
Sen. Ron Wyden says he believes the government had "ample evidence" that Epstein was involved in drug trafficking.
Exclusive
FBI, IRS to probe nonprofit groups for domestic terrorism links, sources say
In December, Attorney General Pam Bondi ordered law enforcement officials to prioritize efforts to probe and prosecute groups and individuals belonging to the antifa movement or are deemed "extremist."
Dolores Huerta alleges assault by Cesar Chavez amid abuse claims
Allegations of abuse of women and girls by union leader Cesar Chavez were first reported by the New York Times on Wednesday.
How to sign up for TSA PreCheck Touchless ID and save time at airports
Travelers hoping to bypass some of the increasingly long wait times at U.S. airports can enroll in the TSA PreCheck Touchless ID program, which is now operating at 65 locations.
MoneyWatch
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Federal Reserve holds interest rates steady, citing economic uncertainty
Fed officials are grappling with a host of economic challenges, from stubborn inflation to a slowing job market.
How to sign up for TSA PreCheck Touchless ID and save time at airports
Travelers hoping to bypass some of the increasingly long wait times at U.S. airports can enroll in the TSA PreCheck Touchless ID program, which is now operating at 65 locations.
Who is Josh D'Amaro, the new CEO of Disney?
As Disney CEO, Josh D'Amaro will be in charge of a massive entertainment empire that includes parks, movies and a streaming service.
Trump waives Jones Act for 60 days in effort to ease energy prices
President Trump on Wednesday temporarily eased a century-old law that limits shippers from transporting energy products around the U.S.
USPS wants to raise the price of a first-class stamp as high as 95 cents
USPS Postmaster General David Steiner said raising the price of stamps would "largely solve" the agency's financial woes.
Politics
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DOJ blocked release of secret Epstein drug probe file, Sen. Wyden says
Sen. Ron Wyden says he believes the government had "ample evidence" that Epstein was involved in drug trafficking.
Exclusive
FBI, IRS to probe nonprofit groups for domestic terrorism links, sources say
In December, Attorney General Pam Bondi ordered law enforcement officials to prioritize efforts to probe and prosecute groups and individuals belonging to the antifa movement or are deemed "extremist."
House Democrats try to force vote to fund DHS, but not ICE and CBP
Democrats would have to convince at least four Republicans to join their discharge petition to force a floor vote.
Trump hasn't decided on sending Americans after Iran's nuclear material, sources say
The Pentagon has prepared multiple options for President Trump as potential next steps in the Iran war.
Paul calls Mullin a "man with anger issues" in confirmation hearing
Sen. Markwayne Mullin is appearing before the Committee on Homeland Security after President Donald Trump nominated him to replace Kristi Noem as the Homeland Security Secretary.
HealthWatch
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Judge blocks parts of RFK Jr.'s vaccine agenda, including revised schedule
A judge blocked a set of changes to the childhood vaccine schedule recommended by allies of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, dealing a setback to the Trump administration's efforts to overhaul federal vaccine policy.
Changes in organ donor status can fall through cracks in the system
Patchwork state policies and limited federal oversight have led to a fragmented system for tracking organ donor status.
A dad's colon cancer spread to lungs. He says what happened next was a miracle.
Spencer Laird was diagnosed with colon cancer at 26. At 30, he was told it had returned and spread to his lungs, with one tumor the size of a golf ball.
Dr. Oz pledges to tackle hospice fraud: "Do not steal from the American people"
The Trump administration's Medicare boss reacts to CBS News investigation into California's hospice fraud problems.
Millions of Americans skip meals, stretch medication to afford health care
Even people with six-figure incomes are making financial sacrifices to pay for medical care, a new study finds.
World
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How Russia is benefitting from "America's war of choice in Iran"
Treasury chief Scott Bessent said Russia wouldn't benefit from an easing of oil sanctions to calm energy markets. But Russia is.
Trump hasn't decided on sending Americans after Iran's nuclear material, sources say
The Pentagon has prepared multiple options for President Trump as potential next steps in the Iran war.
Children discover mysterious ancient skeleton next to playground
The skeleton is the latest in a series of bodies discovered in the city of Dijon that were mysteriously buried in a seated position while facing west.
Belgian soldiers to protect Jewish sites as Iran war fuels antisemitism
Italian soldiers are patrolling Rome's ancient Jewish quarter and Belgian troops will help secure Jewish sites as an official warns the threat of antisemitic violence "is very real."
Woman hospitalized after being startled by humanoid robot
Video widely shared online showed a woman angrily confronting a robot as it waved its metallic arms at her, while a crowd of onlookers gathered around.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Behind the rise of The Last Dinner Party
The band The Last Dinner Party is coming to the U.S. next week to tour its second album, "From the Pyre." The members of the band spoke to Anthony Mason about how they met, their rapid rise to fame and the support they've had along the way.
Inside the Vanity Fair Oscar party
For more than 30 years, Vanity Fair has thrown an exclusive Oscar's after party. This year, the magazine's new global editorial director Mark Guiducci decided to trim the guest list, didn't allow press inside and even required guests to put a sticker over their phone camera for privacy. He speaks to "CBS Mornings" and gives an up-close look at the party.
Nancy Guthrie investigation "becomes much harder" as time goes on, expert says
Law enforcement sources told CBS News that additional images were obtained from surveillance cameras installed at Guthrie's Tucson home, but they showed nothing suspicious.
Melissa Etheridge opens up about new music
Melissa Etheridge speaks with "CBS Mornings" about releasing her 17th studio album "Rise" later this month, writing about the loss of her son and grief.
Woman on viral Coldplay "kiss cam" speaks out
Kristin Cabot, the woman from the viral Coldplay "kiss cam" video, spoke in an exclusive interview with Oprah Winfrey about the backlash she received from that moment and how it differed from comments made about her boss Andy Byron, the CEO of their company.
Technology
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How the military is using AI in war
From intelligence to research and grant applications, artificial intelligence is playing a bigger role in government and military operations.
Landmark social media trial continues
A verdict could come as soon as Tuesday in the landmark trial against Meta and Google for allegedly fueling social media addictions. CBS News contributor Jessica Levinson has more.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
U.S. hospitals, insurers turn to AI for claims
A constant battle in the U.S. health care system is the fight between insurers and providers over the cost of medical procedures and who foots the bill. Both sides are turning to artificial intelligence to make their case. CBS News medical contributor Dr. Céline Gounder explains.
Solar farm development faces pushback
A community in Alabama is pushing back against a solar farm that would power an artificial intelligence data center in the state. CBS News reporter Kati Weis has more.
Science
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Discovery of 1949 whale recording could unlock mysteries of ocean
The song is that of a humpback whale and was recorded by scientists in March 1949 in Bermuda, researchers said.
Sea levels higher than thought due to "methodological blind spot," study says
A new study in the journal Nature says most sea level rise research may have underestimated coastal water heights by an average of 1 foot.
NASA announces major overhaul of Artemis moon program "to take down risk"
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced significant changes to the agency's Artemis program, which aims to land on the moon in 2028.
What scientists will be looking for when government UFO files are released
Documents might help scientists shed light on unexplained phenomena and government secrets, experts said.
In a first, shark seen on camera in Antarctica waters, surprising researchers
A large shark was caught on camera for the first time in Antarctica's waters, surprising researchers. "There's a general rule of thumb that you don't get sharks in Antarctica," one said.
Crime
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Nancy Guthrie investigation "becomes much harder" as time goes on, expert says
Law enforcement sources told CBS News that additional images were obtained from surveillance cameras installed at Guthrie's Tucson home, but they showed nothing suspicious.
Kouri Richins found guilty on all charges
Kouri Richins, the Utah mom accused of killing her husband and later writing a children's book about grief, was found guilty on all charges Monday, including aggravated murder. Her sentencing is now set for May and she faces the possibility of life in prison.
Accused Latin American drug lord arrives in U.S. after years on the run
Sebastian Marset, who eluded police for years, was captured in Bolivia last week and transferred to U.S. custody.
Alleged pipe bomber argues charges should be tossed under Jan. 6 pardons
A man who was accused of planting pipe bombs outside the RNC and DNC on the eve of the Jan. 6 attack is arguing he is covered by President Trump's sweeping pardons of alleged Jan. 6 rioters.
Kouri Richins convicted of murdering husband
A jury on Monday found Kouri Richins, a Utah mom who wrote about grief, guilty of murder in the fatal poisoning of her husband. CBS News reporter Andres Gutierrez has more.
Space
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Space
Video shows meteor streaking across the sky
A meteoroid was spotted streaking across the sky in 10 states. In some areas, there was also a loud boom, similar to an explosion. NASA says the meteor, which was traveling 45,000 mph in the sky, fragmented - causing the bright fireball and loud boom.
7-ton meteor identified as likely cause of boom heard across Ohio
Some residents immediately feared the sound was an explosion, according to CBS affiliate WOIO, but weather service officials say it appears to have been a meteor.
Bill Nye on going from Boeing to science guy
Bill Nye the Science Guy sits down with CBS News chief Washington correspondent Major Garrett to talk about his life and career.
NASA targets April 1 for moon mission launch
NASA's huge Space Launch System rocket has been repaired and is ready for rollout back to the launch pad next week.
1,300-pound NASA satellite to crash on Earth
Nearly 14 years after it was launched in 2012, NASA says a 1,300-pound satellite is expected to come crashing back to Earth on Wednesday. Most of it will burn up as it reenters the atmosphere, but NASA warns some debris could survive reentry.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Fed decides to hold interest rates steady
The Federal Reserve announced Wednesday it would hold interest rates steady at 3.5% to 3.75%. CBS News' Kelly O'Grady reports.
Race heats up for Illinois Senate seat
Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton is projected to go up against Republican Don Tracy in November to win retiring Sen. Dick Durbin's seat. CBS News political director Fin Gomez has more details.
Takeaways from Markwayne Mullin hearing
Sen. Markwayne Mullin appeared before the Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee on Wednesday for a confirmation hearing to replace DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. CBS News congressional reporter Taurean Small has more.
Sources: Trump hasn't decided on troops in Iran
President Trump hasn't made up his mind yet on sending U.S. troops to Iran to seize the country's nuclear material, sources tell CBS News. CBS News' Ed O'Keefe reports.
Officials testify on Iran, worldwide threats
Top U.S. intelligence officials testified before the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence about worldwide threats. Senators pressed Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard about intelligence assessment and what was shared with President Trump before U.S.-Israeli conducted strikes against Iran. CBS News' Taurean Small has more.