The little-known mammals, related to an elephant but as small as a mouse, have been rediscovered in Djibouti, east Africa, after 50 years of obscurity. Despite local sightings, the last scientific record of this "lost species" was in the 1970s. They are small enough to fit in the palm of your hand but are genetically linked to aardvarks, elephants and manatees. Look at their distinctive long and flexible trunk-like noses - they use them to hunt for insects! "Usually when we rediscover lost species, we find just one or two individuals and have to act quickly to try to prevent their imminent extinction," said Robin Moore from the charity, Global Wildlife Conservation. "This is a welcome and wonderful rediscovery during a time of turmoil for our planet, and one that fills us with renewed hope for the remaining small mammal species on our most wanted list." Tap the link in our bio to find out more about how the team of scientists used peanut butter to find these obscure animals.
(📸: Steven Heritage, Duke University Lemur Center)
Source: BBC News
Comentarios