Year in Review Life

These scientific discoveries set new records in 2023

elephant seal

Northern elephant seals are deep sleepers. Literally. On monthslong hunting trips at sea, the seals dive deep to take supershort naps beyond the reach of sharks or killer whales.

MARK NEWMAN/GETTY IMAGES

By Maria Temming

In 2023, researchers made plenty of discoveries for the record books — and the history books. This year’s scientific superlatives shed new light on our ancient ancestors, our planet and the animals we share it with.

Least sleep among mammals

However sleep-deprived you may be, you’re probably still better rested than a northern elephant seal.