While driving down an East Texas country road I spotted this scene. The autumn trees and the late afternoon sun made these golden bales of hay shine just a little bit more. Fortunately I had my camera with me. (c) James Q. Eddy Jr.

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Woodpeckers and tennis players share similarities when preparing to strike

By Christopher Intagliata,

Marc Rivers

Published November 7, 2025 at 2:52 PM CST

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Scientists have investigated how woodpeckers use their muscles and their breathing to prepare to strike wood -- and they liken it to the way tennis players prepare to smack a ball.

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Christopher Intagliata

Christopher Intagliata is an editor at All Things Considered, where he writes news and edits interviews with politicians, musicians, restaurant owners, scientists and many of the other voices heard on the air.

Marc Rivers