Birders in Texas Are on Alert After the Arrival of This Invasive Species

For almost seven million years, two bird species have stayed far apart—and for good reason. The Green Jaybird migrated to the eastern part of the world, while the Blue Jay made its home in Central America. Until recently, they had no reason—or opportunity—to come into contact.

But that’s all changed.

This Bird Just Landed in Texas, and It’s Spurring a Major Conservation Debate

According to VICE connection has finally been made, and we have climate change to thank for it. The shifting global temperatures have disrupted traditional migration patterns, throwing the natural order out of balance. After millions of years apart, it seems love is in the air, and the two birds have reunited.

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A Striking New Bird Is Now in Texas, Posing a Silent Threat to Native Species

Because these two species have bred, a new hybrid bird has emerged: the Grue Jay, now spotted in San Antonio, Texas. Researchers at the University of Austin confirmed the hybrid offspring, which may be the first known vertebrate hybrid created by the recent expansion of each species’ range—again, thanks to climate change.

The new bird is described as having a black mass, a white chest, and feathers with a kind of grayish-blue hue. It’s always exciting to discover new species, but what does this mean for Texans?

Birders in Texas Are on Alert After the Arrival of This Invasive Species

Some are concerned about the broader implications. Brad Stokes, a University of Austin graduate, believes this is just the beginning. “Climate change is messing up global temperatures and causing birds to migrate wherever they can,” he said. Texans may soon witness even more unlikely reunions between long-separated species.