Facts You Didn't Know
Surprising Facts About Birds, Animals, and Foods We Love
Discover how tahini got its name, the bird with a vomit button, and the animal that always leaves a lookout
- Debbie Reichman
- פורסם ח' חשון התשפ"א

#VALUE!
• Ever wonder why tahini is called that?
Tahini is a super healthy food, rich in calcium and often called a “superfood.” It’s made from sesame seeds that are hulled, washed, dried, roasted, and ground. The name “tahini” comes from the grinding process. In fact, the word comes from Arabic and refers to grinding.
• Do you know where the lowest place on Earth is?
That would be the Dead Sea in Israel. It’s famous for being the lowest spot on the planet. Because it’s so salty, no fish can live in it but the air there has extra oxygen, which helps with breathing. The mud is full of minerals and is great for your skin.
• Do you know what nails are made of?
Our fingernails are made of keratin, which is a strong type of skin. Thanks to keratin, our nails don’t wear down easily and help us scratch and grip things. It’s also the main material that makes up our hair.
• Which animal always posts a lookout?
The meerkat, found in South Africa. Meerkats have many natural enemies, like eagles, so they’re very careful. When a group of meerkats comes out to search for food, one always stands watch from a high spot. If danger is near, the lookout calls out a warning.
• What kind of glue was inspired by the gecko?
Geckos can stick to almost any surface even dry and smooth ones. Each toe has about half a million tiny hairs that help it grip. Scientists created a glue called “Geckskin” that copies this idea. It sticks really well and can be reused many times without losing its grip.
• Which bird has a “vomit button”?
The Caspian gull has a red spot near the tip of its beak. When its baby chicks peck at this spot, the adult gull brings up food it already ate, so the chicks can eat it. It might sound strange but it works!
• What’s the strongest bird of prey?
Most experts say it’s the harpy eagle, which is also the national bird of Panama. It’s the biggest eagle and has the strongest grip. Its claws can grow to 12 cm long, and it can carry animals weighing up to 7 kilos.