Interbreeding between animals of different lineages is widespread in nature—and may reveal some of the mysteries of evolution.
Hybrids between brown bears and polar bears—call… See more

Genetically, a hybrid animal is the result of interbreeding between divergent lineages,  says Erica Larson, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Denver. 
Most non-s… See more

One of the most well-known examples of hybridization is the so-called liger, a cross between a male lion and a female tiger. Ligers were elevated to pop culture fame after a refer… See more

While hybrids seem unusual, it’s likely that many are quite common.
For instance, Mulvihill says it’s probably no coincidence that hybridization is well documente… See more

Hybridizing doesn’t always spell genetic doom. But it may not produce stronger species, either.
For example, ligers are prone to health problems, s… See more