› added 1 year ago

74

TIL that author J.K. Rowling often relied on the fan-made Harry Potter Lexicon while writing the 'Harry Potter' books: "I have been known to sneak into an Internet café while out writing and check a fact rather than go into a bookshop and buy a copy of 'Harry Potter', which is embarrassing."

Read more wikipedia.org

via reddit.com

VBQb8 TIL that Dr Amy Bishop shot and killed three professors in a University of Alabama biology department meeting in 2010. It was found out later that she had shot and killed her brother in 1986 and was never charged.
9V56 TIL the creation of Daft Punk’s name originated from a British journalist calling their original band, Darlin’, “a bunch of daft punk”. The third member of Darlin’, not liking the new more-electronic vibe, left and formed the band Phoenix.
Z45a TIL in 1965, seeds that were dated to 2,000 years old were discovered in an ancient jar in Israel. The seeds were kept in storage for 40 years and after they were planted, a tree that had been extinct for over 1800 years sprouted.
1aWWD TIL Anthony Bourdain at times wouldn't name the places he'd visit while filming. He did this sometimes to prevent tourists from turning a bar or restaurant into a tourist trap after filming there.
xVJWk TIL Gouldian finch young have unusual mouth markings that biologists find intriguing. One study showed the markings might help finch parents judge the health and age of their chicks. Another study revealed the glowing bumps outside of the beak reflect light, serving as a built-in beacon for feeding.