this post was submitted on 28 Jul 2025
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[–] can@sh.itjust.works 18 points 5 days ago

This is not a simple genetic mutation, as can be observed in other color and pattern variations in this species. It is a rare example of a tetragametic chimera, which originates when two fertilized embryos merge during a very early stage of development — between the 2-cell and the 64-cell stage. Each half has different DNA, with genetically distinct cells and the resultant bird is in effect two budgerigars fused together to form a single autonomous individual.

[–] theupsanddownsof@lemmy.world 4 points 5 days ago

Sounds like a Steven King novel