Fifty years ago, Colorado's rivers were otter-free, thanks to a charming combination of over-trapping and industrial pollution. Because apparently, we can't have nice things without actively trying to ruin them first. But now, after a half-century of reintroduction efforts by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), these delightful, whiskered torpedoes are making a glorious comeback.
And CPW wants you, yes you, to help track their progress. They're asking Coloradans to become citizen scientists and report any otter sightings using the iNaturalist platform. Think of it as a state-sponsored scavenger hunt, but with more splashing and fewer questionable prizes. It's a surprisingly effective way to monitor species, and frankly, a good excuse to spend more time by a river.
Ghosting Your Job Applicants? That'll Be $100,000, Canada Says.
Meanwhile, across the border in Ontario, Canada, employers are learning a harsh lesson about common courtesy. It's now officially illegal for companies to "ghost" job applicants after an interview. Yes, you read that right. If you interview someone, you must tell them if they didn't get the gig. Fail to do so, and your company could be staring down a fine of up to $100,000 CAD (roughly $73,000 USD).
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Start Your News DetoxBecause apparently, "professional behavior" needed to be legislated. Which, if you think about it, is both impressive and slightly terrifying. It's a bold move to ensure job seekers aren't left hanging, wondering if their resume simply evaporated into the digital ether. Take note, world: a little closure goes a long way, or in this case, saves you a hefty chunk of change.
More Good News to Brighten Your Day
Around the globe, more countries are ditching the gas pump for electric vehicles, a trend that's picking up speed faster than a Tesla on ludicrous mode. High oil prices certainly help, but the long-term benefits are the real drive.
And in a rather poetic turn, millions of bees have decided a cemetery is the perfect buzzing metropolis. It's a powerful, if slightly macabre, reminder of just how vital these pollinators are — not just for our ecosystem, but for our dinner plates and wallets too. Who knew the afterlife could be so productive?
Finally, a story by Michaela Haas about former Navy SEALS trading combat for ocean conservation is a finalist for the L.A. Press Club Awards. The winners are announced in June, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected heroes are the ones saving our oceans, one coral reef at a time.
