The story of the dodo bird is iconic – a tale of extinction that resulted from human interference rather than natural selection. However, in a groundbreaking effort, scientists and researchers are now working toward “de-extincting” the dodo, giving the famously flightless bird another chance to inhabit the world.
While this endeavor sounds like science fiction, it may be possible thanks to advances in genetic technology and the dedication of de-extinction companies like Colossal Biosciences. Let’s explore what led to the dodo’s extinction, the steps scientists take to bring it back, and the broader implications of such an effort.
The Dodo’s Extinction: A Story of Human Impact
Native to the island of Mauritius, the dodo’s isolated existence left it ill-prepared for human interference. As noted in an article by Colossal Laboratories & Biosciences, the dodo lived a peaceful, predator-free life, leading it to lose defensive traits and develop a more docile nature. By the late 17th century, when sailors and settlers arrived on Mauritius, the dodo became an easy target for hunting and exploitation.
As Scientific American’s Christine Kenneally explains, settlers not only hunted the dodo but also introduced non-native species like rats, monkeys, and pigs, which preyed on dodo eggs, further driving the species to extinction. Ultimately, the dodo symbolizes humanity’s unintentional but devastating impact on species and ecosystems.
Why Bring Back the Dodo?
Colossal Biosciences is not new to the world of de-extinction. Known for its ambitious projects to resurrect the woolly mammoth and the Tasmanian tiger, Colossal announced in January 2023 its plans to also revive the dodo. But why focus on a bird that has been gone for over 300 years?
According to Colossal’s Chief Science Officer Beth Shapiro, the dodo is an ideal candidate for de-extinction, partly because of its iconic status as a symbol of human-caused extinction. Furthermore, unlike mammalian embryos, bird embryos develop within eggs, bypassing some of the complex challenges involved in mammalian de-extinction efforts.
The Science Behind Dodo De-Extinction
Reviving a species like the dodo involves intricate genetic engineering. Colossal’s scientists, including Shapiro, have already sequenced the dodo’s genome, which is the first essential step toward de-extinction. Using DNA from a close relative, the Nicobar pigeon, researchers are working on developing a dodo-like embryo.
According to Shapiro, the Nicobar pigeon’s genetic material is being manipulated to resemble that of the dodo, a process that involves precise editing of specific genes. The eventual goal is to create an egg that will hatch into a bird closely resembling the original dodo.
Ethical Considerations and Ecosystem Impact
While bringing back the dodo has generated excitement, it also raises ethical questions. As u/RFSandler pointed out on Reddit, “Is it ethical to de-extinct something just to farm it for food?” Others, like u/funtobedone, expressed concerns about habitat, questioning if the modern environment could support a reintroduced dodo. Scientists are actively addressing these concerns by planning habitat restoration efforts on Mauritius to ensure the dodo has a viable home. Colossal is collaborating with the Mauritius Wildlife Foundation (MWF) to create a supportive environment for the dodo and other species that would benefit from ecosystem restoration.
The Role of Technology in Resurrecting the Dodo
The technological hurdles of avian de-extinction are formidable. Unlike mammals, birds cannot be cloned, a fact Shapiro underscores. Instead, Colossal’s scientists are exploring ways to use primordial germ cells (PGCs) extracted from bird embryos to develop a genome-modified bird that resembles the dodo.
By leveraging PGC technology and advancements in genome editing, Colossal aims to bypass the need for traditional cloning. Although these techniques are still in the experimental phase, success could open doors for other avian species’ de-extinction and conservation.
Lessons from Other Species
The dodo is not the only species on Colossal’s radar. The company’s work with woolly mammoths and Tasmanian tigers has offered insights into the unique challenges of each de-extinction project. While the mammoth’s gestation period requires a lengthy two-year surrogate pregnancy, the dodo’s egg-based development offers a less complex path.
Nonetheless, bringing back the dodo may require adaptations learned from these other projects. In one Reddit thread, u/green_meklar commented, “Well, it’s the first step to becoming a famously resurrected bird,” highlighting the symbolic and technological significance of these efforts.
Cultural and Symbolic Importance of the Dodo
Few extinct species are as culturally symbolic as the dodo. Known widely for its “dumb” image, the dodo was in fact a well-adapted species suited to its environment – until humans disrupted that balance. As Colossal Biosciences states, the dodo’s nature was misunderstood, as its behavior was an outcome of evolution in a predator-free environment. This understanding of the dodo challenges misconceptions and underscores the importance of respecting unique ecosystems.
Potential Benefits for Conservation
One of the major benefits of de-extinction technology is its potential application in conserving endangered species. Colossal’s innovations could be pivotal in diversifying the gene pools of vulnerable species like the Mauritius pink pigeon, which faces similar risks that led to the dodo’s extinction. As noted by Shapiro, the tools developed for the dodo’s genetic editing could be used to strengthen the resilience of threatened avian populations by introducing genetic diversity and improving reproductive success.
Addressing Skepticism and Public Opinion
Not everyone is on board with the idea of de-extinction. Critics argue that resources might be better spent protecting existing species. Commenters on Reddit, such as u/basicradical, voiced concerns, stating, “Sounds cool, but I’d rather have big science spend money on preserving what we have now.”
Proponents, however, believe that the advancements in genetic technology are necessary for both de-extinction and broader conservation efforts. The debate continues, and it highlights the need for a balanced approach to conservation funding and priorities.
Reintroducing the Dodo: What’s Next?
Even if scientists successfully manage to create a dodo-like bird, additional steps are required before reintroduction. The modern-day dodo would need to learn survival skills in an environment vastly different from the one it left centuries ago. Colossal and the MWF are preparing for this by restoring parts of Mauritius to resemble the dodo’s original habitat.
Still, as u/Indigows6800 humorously commented with the example of Mammoths, “Who teaches them to live in the wild?” Without other dodos to learn from, researchers must ensure the bird can thrive independently.
A New Era in Conservation
If successful, the de-extinction of the dodo could mark the beginning of a new era in conservation. Colossal’s efforts extend beyond merely “bringing back” a species; they aim to restore balance to an ecosystem disrupted by human actions. Scientists hope to mend damaged environments and prevent future extinctions by learning to reintroduce species responsibly. The broader implications could lead to novel methods of managing biodiversity and protecting still intact ecosystems.
The Future of De-Extinction Science
While the journey to de-extinction is still in its early stages, the research around the dodo’s potential revival has already contributed to our understanding of genetics, conservation, and ethical boundaries. As Shapiro puts it, Colossal’s work is “not a solution to the extinction crisis,” but it is a step toward developing tools for future conservation efforts. Whether the project succeeds or not, the de-extinction efforts for the dodo emphasize the growing role of science in addressing past mistakes and advocating for responsible stewardship of our planet.
A New Legacy for the “Famously Dead” Bird?
The dodo’s story may soon take a remarkable turn. As u/green_meklar put it, the dodo might soon become “a famously resurrected bird,” turning its tragic legacy into a tale of innovation and redemption. Should this project succeed, it would not only represent a triumph of scientific progress but also a powerful reminder of our duty to protect and restore the natural world. The dodo, once emblematic of human negligence, could instead become a symbol of hope and resilience in our fight against extinction.
Mark grew up in the heart of Texas, where tornadoes and extreme weather were a part of life. His early experiences sparked a fascination with emergency preparedness and homesteading. A father of three, Mark is dedicated to teaching families how to be self-sufficient, with a focus on food storage, DIY projects, and energy independence. His writing empowers everyday people to take small steps toward greater self-reliance without feeling overwhelmed.