We explore the world of hybrid animals, including successful scientific experiments and failed attempts that resulted in tragedy. One example of an involuntary crossing is the reckless hon, a bird that combines features of the western capercaillie and black grouse.

This hybrid has an overly fiery temperament and is much bigger and stronger than an ordinary black grouse. However, such hybrids are not capable of further reproduction.

Another example is the zubron, a hybrid of domestic cattle and bison. The first zubron was bred in 1847 and was recognized as a promising species, but attempts to breed them on an industrial scale failed. Despite the benefits to agriculture, animal advocates were unexpectedly in favor of purity of blood, and the experiments with zubron breeding have been officially stopped.

The essay also discusses the close genetic relationship between zebras and rhinos and the possibility of crossbreeding these animals in the future.

The emergence of new technology for DNA isolation, cloning, and cell reprogramming has opened up new possibilities for the revival of extinct species. Successful hybrids have often come from people far removed from universities and laboratories, such as the Buckfast bee, which was created by a monk named Brother Adam.