News: Research

Research

Big Brains and Big Ranges Might Not Save Birds from Climate Change

Global bird sightings from citizen scientists and view into “climate niches” reveals unexpected risks for some birds.

Two birds perched on branches. The left bird has sleek brownish-gray feathers, a black eye mask, a crest on its head, and yellow-red wing markings. The right bird features speckled brown-gray plumage with bright yellow wing patches and a reddish-brown head.

Research

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.

three jousting weevils on a wooden log

Research

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.

Photo of orange and brown frog leptopelis boulengeri on a tree branch

Research

Targeted Grazing May Help Beat Invasive Buffelgrass

Researchers head to Kenya to unlock the weaknesses of invasive buffelgrass to combat it here in Texas.

Image of buffelgrass and cattle

Research

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.

A sea otter feeds on a marine animal

Research

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.

A black and yellow bug with red flaps on its hind legs sits on a green leaf

Research

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.

A pink flower with green stem against a tan background

Research

Climate Change and Habitat Loss Are Big Factors in Frog Pandemic

The worldwide decline in frog populations is due to a fast-spreading infection, but people also play a role.

A small frog perches on a large rock

Research

First Brainwide Map Shows How Sex and Intimacy Rewire the Brain

Steven Phelps and his team found 68 brain regions in prairie voles associated with mating and bonding.

A pair of small furry rodents snuggle

Research

Genes That ‘Don’t Play Well Together’ Drive Development of Distinct Species

Justin Havird, Erik Iverson and their colleagues have identified genes involved in hybrid incompatibility in swordtail fishes.

Fish swimming in an aquarium