A New Hope for the Dodo's Return

In an exciting twist in conservation science, researchers are inching toward resurrecting the dodo, a bird that disappeared from our planet more than 300 years ago. This ambitious ambition has gained momentum following a significant breakthrough from Colossal Biosciences, a Texas-based biotech company.

Groundbreaking Technique to Culture Germ Cells

Colossal Biosciences has successfully cultured primordial germ cells—the foundational elements that lead to sperm and eggs—of pigeons in the lab. This groundbreaking technique has been hailed as a 'pivotal step' toward potentially bringing the dodo back to life and restoring it to its native home in Mauritius.

Timeline for Creation of Live Dodos

Colossal's CEO, Ben Lamm, projects that a live dodo could emerge in as soon as 5 to 7 years, noting that this timeline falls well within achievable parameters for genetic engineering advancements. He asserted, 'It’s not 20 years out,' providing hope to conservationists and bird enthusiasts alike.

Using the Nicobar Pigeon as a Genetic Blueprint

To resurrect the dodo, the team is using the Nicobar pigeon, the closest existing relative of the dodo, as a genetic template. This initiative is part of a larger commitment, bolstered by a staggering $120 million in funding. Colossal has now amassed a total of $555 million since its inception in 2021, aiming not only to resurrect the dodo but also to bring back creatures like the woolly mammoth.

A Complex Process Ahead

Reviving the dodo entails a meticulous approach, as birds cannot be cloned in the same manner as mammals. Chief Science Officer Beth Shapiro noted, 'We have to create two generations,' which complicates the process. This entails producing both a male and female lineage separately before breeding them to ensure genetic diversity. Colossal's ambitious plan aims to generate thousands of these birds, not just a pair.

Excitement Meets Skepticism

While this achievement is hailed as a monumental stride in restoration efforts, some scientists urge caution. Evolutionary biologist Leonardo Campagna emphasized the complexity of the dodo's genetic makeup and the challenges of accurately recreating it. 'We need to recognize how much is still unknown,' he stated.

Ethical Dilemmas in De-extinction