Barnorama All Fun In The Barn
Scrunchies were a fashion staple of the ’80s and ’90s. These hair ties were big and gaudy, and every girl wanted to have one. However, like most fashion trends, the fad came to a sudden end. But what happened to all of those scrunchies?
West Australian researchers found a use for these accessories since they aren’t worn on the heads of fashionable gals anymore. Their goofy-looking yet practical discovery might end up saving some lives of our animal pals.
West Australian researchers found that when a cat wears a scrunchie around its neck, it will have a far worse chance of killing birds, reptiles, and amphibians, among other wildlife.
This became a problem in Australia, to the point where lawmakers and members of wildlife preservation firms actually insisted that their citizens put scrunchies on their cats.
The research shows that birds can see the bright colors around the cat’s neck, thus alerting it to the danger that may come with being near it. Mice and other rodents don’t have the keen eyesight to notice these colors, so cats can still be used to ward off these pesky vermin.
Not only does this practice help preserve wildlife, it’s also pretty cute.
Who knew that such a simple fix could save so many lives? I’m sure the birds of Australia are thankful for this discovery, and I’m sure the makers of scrunchies are thankful as well. They’re back in business, baby!