National Geographic December 2013

Out of Eden
“Are you crazy?” That’s one of the first questions the author heard as he began his 21,000-mile trek.

English by the Book

Experts dig into the roots of words.

Ghost Cats

Radio collars and camera traps reveal the haunts of the elusive cougar – in L.A. and beyond.

First Skiers

The origin of the sport may lie in remote Chinese mountains, where skiing is still a way of life.

Virtually Immortal

Lasers scan landmarks like Mount Rushmore, creating a digital record to guide any future rehab.

The Unexplored Walrus

It’s doting and dangerous, graceful and lumbering.

The Weed That Won the West

It came from Russia. And it tumbled. A lot.