In northern Argentina, one bird courts romance by snapping its wrists together, producing a sound scientists have puzzled over for decades. Now, researchers have captured the behavior in detail, revealing how scissor-tailed nightjars create one of the most curious sounds in the avian world.

A top development executive at University of Minnesota has been named UC Riverside’s next vice chancellor for Development and Alumni Engagement (DAE). Travis Smith will also assume the role of president of the UC Riverside Foundation following confirmation by the foundation board of trustees. Smith is currently senior vice president...