Five Great Reads: speaking to Israeli soldiers, floating in a dark pod, and the smallest things in the world

Tiny species can sometimes struggle to get the same conservation attention as their larger, more charismatic counterparts. Photograph: Courtesy of Chofungi/iNaturalist

Good morning, happy Saturday, and happy birthday to me for yesterday. I got myself these pictures of murmurations of starlings (really, they are spectacular, so beautiful – have a look).

The year of the dragon is here. If you’re reading this in Australia, maybe you can go celebrate at one of these events. Or pack yourself an easy lunch and go peruse this selection of interesting articles in the park. Or, both! World’s your oyster.