Why Man’s Best Friend is Probably (OK, Definitely) Not a Canine

They drink alcohol and love spicy food. What attributes could be better in a best friend? And of course, it’s not your dog. The animal in question is a tree shrew, the only mammal (besides us) who likes habaneros, jalapenos, spicy Bloody Marys, you name it. If its furry forehead breaks out in a sweat, it’s just fine as far as a shrew is concerned. According to a report in Atlas Obscura, tree shrews are very closely related to humans but are smaller than primates so they are easier to study. In recent research, scientists discovered that tree shrews are similar to birds: neither are affected by capsaicinoids, the molecules that make chilis hot. So break out the Carolina Reapers and the Ghost Peppers—we think these guys can handle them.

Egg whites have long been used in winemaking as a fining agent. In many parts of Europe, the yolks left behind would then be:

A. Given to a local convent

B. Scattered in the vineyard as fertilizer

C. Given to local schools to be used for egg dishes for children

D. Used by the winery for lubricating winemaking equipment

Historically, convents located in wine regions often developed signature desserts and breads based on egg yolks. The nuns would then sell these food items as a source of income for the convent.

Isinglass

A gelatinous material, obtained from—get ready—the air bladders of sturgeon and other fish. Isinglass is sometimes used in fining wine to clarify and/or soften the texture of wine. Happily enough, it’s removed before bottling.

Why Man’s Best Friend is Probably (OK, Definitely) Not a Canine

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