Search results for

The Inca Empire in South America was one of the most powerful pre-Columbian societies. It was known for the architecture of Machu Picchu, an extensive road network and a system of terraces for agriculture. The society also kept records known as khipu, which involved a system of tying knots to encode sophisticated information. Literacy in this form of writing was assumed to be something that only the highest levels of Inca society could do. But NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce shares how a new analysis of a cord made out of human hair may change that assumption. Curious about science history? Email us at shortwave@npr.org. Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.

The Yellow-bellied Sapsucker nests well to the north of us, but winters in Florida, other Gulf states, and the Caribbean. Older males tend to winter farther north, while females and first-year birds winter farther south. Males must return early to establish nesting territories and by staying farther north in winter, they are better able to deal with late cold weather sometimes encountered. Females return to breeding areas about a week later than males.Male Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers can be identified by their red throat. Females and fledgling males have a white throat; young males begin to show red throat feathers early in their second year. Young sapsuckers have dark streaks on the side of the breast and belly; adults show a “cleaner” yellowish belly and distinct black bib on the breast.

Danny O'Shea turned 35 at his first Olympics, after three decades of skating and two reversed retirements.

Andrew Karr is acting principal French horn of the Florida Orchestra. His former student, WSMR Garth Family Intern Erik Ali-Mohamed interviewed him for this feature.

The Florida Orchestra's music director and resident conductor will serve as "artists-in-residence" this season at the University of South Florida's School of Music.

"The Shark is Broken," at Jobsite Theater, was co-written by Ian Shaw, son of late actor Robert Shaw.

Does the color of a concert venue change how we hear music? German researchers have an answer.

Fall in love with your home again with these feng shui-inspired decorating tips from architect Cliff Tan. They focus on creating an environment that feels happy, harmonious and full of good energy.

Michael B. Jordan and Jessie Buckley won best actor and best actress. Paul Thomas Anderson received best director. Cassandra Kulukundis won the Academy's first ever casting award.

A mix of decorated veterans and rising stars won 24 medals for Team USA, 13 of them gold. The last one arrived Sunday, when the U.S. sled hockey team beat Canada to win its fifth straight gold medal.