› added 11 years ago

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TIL that the Lyme disease bacteria is actually transmitted from mice to ticks. And that humans have greatly contributed to outbreaks by causing forest fragmentation and killing predators.

Read more nsf.gov

via reddit.com

Yn8r TIL there is a gang of Serbian thieves named The Pink Panthers who have pulled off Mission Impossible styled heists netting over EUR 300 Million in jewels. Their leader, Dragan Mikic, escaped prison by scaling a wall while the Pink Panthers shot at guards with machine guns
beOp TIL that most U.S. Vodka producers do not distill their own spirits. Rather, they buy bulk ethanol, dilute it with water and flavorings and then sell it as premium booze.
ADmxx TIL the flag of the East India Company is said to have inspired the Grand Union Flag of 1775, ultimately inspiring the current flag of the United States. Mysorean rockets were also used in the Battle of Baltimore, and are mentioned in The Star Spangled Banner: "And the rockets' red glare..."
b9XbZ TIL that maraschino cherries are almond flavored.
Eg4ex TIL Penguins have hidden knees that make their legs appear shorter than they actually are. This allows them to swim more efficiently by reducing drag in the water.