News: Research
So What Should We Call This – a Grue Jay?
The rare hybrid offspring of a blue jay and a green jay is likely a result of weather-related shifts in the range of two species.
Nearly Half of Latin American Frogs and Toads Are at Risk
A new study shows that nearly half of frog and toad species in Latin America may lose their habitat range by 2050.
Big Brains and Big Ranges Might Not Save Birds from Climate Change
Global bird sightings from citizen scientists and a view into “climate niches” reveal unexpected risks for some birds.
Texas Connect
Turtle pond serves as living lab for student researchers
Justin Havird is leading students in a research project on the ecology and evolution of UT Austin's beloved turtles.
The Lesser of Two Weevils: Size Differences in Some Insects Lead to Tradeoffs in the Competition for Mates
The largest males have bigger weapons, but smaller males have other advantages.
For Rainforest Amphibians, the Bigger the Toes, the Higher They Go
In rainforests in Gabon, amphibians with larger toes relative to their body length are found higher in the forest canopy.
Targeted Grazing May Help Beat Invasive Buffelgrass
Researchers head to Kenya to unlock the weaknesses of invasive buffelgrass to combat it here in Texas.
Otters, Especially Females, Use Tools To Survive a Changing World
A new study has found that individual sea otters that use tools — most of whom are female — are able to eat larger prey and reduce tooth damage when their preferred prey becomes depleted.
Red Flags: I’m Not the Bug for You!
The matador bug’s vibrant red hind-leg flags are neither a mating display nor a distraction tactic, they’re part of an elaborate defense strategy.
Why the Powerhouses of Cells Evolve Differently in Plants
New research solves a mystery as to why mitochondria in some plants evolve faster than others.
