The short version
Science essay connecting high-altitude birds to deep evolutionary history; praised for lively writing.
From the HackerLinks archive
Why Birds Can Fly Over Mount Everest
Science essay connecting high-altitude birds to deep evolutionary history; praised for lively writing.
At a glance:
First seen:2026-10-25
Last seen:2026-10-25
Times seen:1
Website:nautil.us
Why it caught our attention
A specific, enthusiastic reading recommendation offers an accessible evolutionary rabbit hole.
Where it surfaced on Hacker News
2026-10-25
“I love this blog article which explains "Why Birds Can Fly Over Mount Everest" from ~first principles starting 450 million years ago, involving the appearance of lignin and the lack of biological processes to break it down. Very funnily and lightly written, just lovely overall:”
williamdclt · recommendation
Direct HN comment
Rise of collagen-eating microbes may help explain gaps in the fossil record
Also surfaced in this discussion
Oxygen: The Molecule That Made the World
Rise of collagen-eating microbes may help explain gaps in the fossil record
2026-10-25