If you’re a true Internet geek, you probably know about RFC 1149, the “Standard for the Transmission of IP Datagrams on Avian Carriers.” Yes, you read that right — it’s a way to transmit information, via Internet protocols, by homing pigeons. It was released on April first, 1990.

Well, after eighteen years, it looks like it’s finally got some competition: Snail Mail. I’m sure you’ve heard the term used for the Postal Service (sometimes with good reason), but this one is using real snails. And it’s apparently not a hoax.

If you’re curious, there’s a BBC article with a little more information here.