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Texas Researchers Discover First 'Grue Jay' Hybrid Amid Climate Change

9/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Researchers in Texas identified the first wild hybrid between a green jay and a blue jay, named the "grue jay."
Published on September 10 in *Ecology and Evolution*, the discovery underscores climate change's impact on species range shifts.
Green jays have migrated north, while blue jays have moved west, facilitating their mating.
The hybrid was initially reported in May 2023 by a San Antonio homeowner.
Genetic analysis confirmed its hybrid status, indicating potential for more hybrids as climate change continues.

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Story summary

Researchers in Texas identified the first wild hybrid between a green jay and a blue jay, named the "grue jay."
Published on September 10 in *Ecology and Evolution*, the discovery underscores climate change's impact on species range shifts.
Green jays have migrated north, while blue jays have moved west, facilitating their mating.
The hybrid was initially reported in May 2023 by a San Antonio homeowner.
Genetic analysis confirmed its hybrid status, indicating potential for more hybrids as climate change continues.