We study the process of range expansion, and subsequent hybridization, of Scissor-tailed Flycatchers and Western Kingirds in eastern Arkansas and western Tennessee. In this region, these birds are largely found in urban settings and we are interested in exploring the causes and consequences of both hybridization and urbanization (and interactions between these two processes) in this complex.

Mixed pair produce successful brood in Memphis, TN (2014 and 2015)

Video of pair provisioning nestlings:

Female putative pure Western Kingbird (Tyrannus verticalis):

Male putative pure (SY?) Scissor-tailed Flycatcher (Tyrannus forficatus):

Mixed pair nesting successfully again in 2015:

Female (Western Kingbird x STFL) hybrid x Male Scissor-tailed Flycatcher x on President's Island (2014; failed nesting attempt)

Female hybrid (WEKI x STFL):

Female (WEKI x STFL) hybrid x Male STFL on President's Island produce two successful broods (2015)

Female hybrid (WEKI x STFL):

Male STFL:

The pair:

Video of the pair and one of their fledglings (with and w/o musical score!)