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Wildlife Biologist Believes These 5 Extinct Animals Could Still Be Alive In Remote Corners of the World

In a surprising exploration of creatures declared extinct, renowned wildlife biologist Forrest Galante argues that some of these species might still be surviving in remote corners of the world. Galante, known for his passion for rediscovering lost species, shares his thoughts on five supposedly extinct animals he believes could still be out there. Here’s a look at these fascinating creatures and the reasons Galante believes they could be alive today.

1. The Mexican Grizzly Bear: Elusive Mountain Ghost

1. The Mexican Grizzly Bear Elusive Mountain Ghost
Image Credit: Forrest Galante

The Mexican grizzly bear, known as “el Oso plateado” for its unique silvery fur, was last officially seen in the 1960s. Galante describes this bear as a relative of the North American grizzly but one that once roamed Mexico and parts of Baja California. Its decline was rapid, as relentless hunting reduced its population to only a few dozen by the mid-20th century.

However, Galante notes that there were sightings well after the bear was declared extinct, with some reports from farmers claiming livestock had been mysteriously killed by what could be a bear. Galante places the chances of the Mexican grizzly still existing at 3 out of 10, mainly due to the difficulty of safely accessing its remote habitat.

2. Moluccan Babirusa: The Mythical Pig of Indonesia

2. Moluccan Babirusa The Mythical Pig of Indonesia
Image Credit: Forrest Galante

This pig-like creature, the Moluccan Babirusa, is one of the most bizarre animals Galante discusses. Known for its alien appearance, with tusks protruding from both its upper and lower jaws, the Babirusa is a species that Western science has never observed in the wild. The indigenous people of Indonesia have shared stories about this animal for generations, but its natural range has been threatened by deforestation and hunting. Galante believes that the dense, hard-to-reach jungles of Indonesia could still harbor this elusive creature, rating its potential survival at 7 out of 10.

3. Baiji, or the Yangtze River Dolphin: The Lost Goddess of the River

3. Baiji, or the Yangtze River Dolphin The Lost Goddess of the River
Image Credit: Forrest Galante

Declared extinct in 2006, the Yangtze River dolphin, or Baiji, was once a prominent figure in China’s Yangtze River. Known for its intelligent and complex social behaviors, the Baiji suffered from pollution, dam construction, and increased ship traffic. Galante highlights reports from locals who claim to have seen the dolphin as recently as 2016, giving hope that some might still survive in secluded areas of the river. Despite efforts to find it, access to some river sections has been restricted, making it difficult to confirm the dolphin’s status. Galante places the odds of its continued existence at 4 out of 10.

4. Pink-headed Duck: Hiding in Myanmar’s Swamps

4. Pink headed Duck Hiding in Myanmar’s Swamps
Image Credit: Forrest Galante

The pink-headed duck is another enigmatic creature that Galante believes could still be hiding in the wild. Originally from the wetlands of India and Myanmar, this bird has unique pink feathers that make it easy to identify. Despite its last confirmed sighting in 1949, Galante thinks the remote, swampy areas of Myanmar could still provide refuge for this species. Locals in Myanmar claim to have spotted the duck, which aligns with Galante’s belief in its survival chances, which he rates at a high 8 out of 10. The challenging environment in Myanmar has kept scientists from thoroughly investigating, which might be aiding the duck’s secrecy.

5. Largetooth Sawfish: A Potentially Migratory Survivor

5. Largetooth Sawfish A Potentially Migratory Survivor
Image Credit: Forrest Galante

The largetooth sawfish, a massive ray-like fish with a “saw” of sharp teeth extending from its head, was once common in the coastal waters of the U.S., particularly in Florida. Habitat destruction and overfishing led to its rapid decline, and it hasn’t been spotted in the U.S. since the 1960s. However, divers still report sightings of large sawfish in other parts of the world, suggesting that small populations may exist outside of their original range. Galante rates the possibility of encountering this species again in the U.S. at 9 out of 10, with hope that the sawfish might migrate between continents.

The Power of Remote Habitats

The Power of Remote Habitats
Image Credit: Forrest Galante

Galante argues that the remoteness of some habitats, such as Myanmar’s treacherous swamps and the vast, uncharted jungles of Indonesia, provides refuge for these elusive animals. In his view, this natural seclusion is precisely why these animals might still survive, shielded from the impacts of urbanization and human encroachment. His belief is strengthened by previous discoveries of species thought to be extinct, only to be rediscovered decades later in hard-to-reach areas.

Local Stories as Evidence

Local Stories as Evidence
Image Credit: Survival World

In Galante’s experience, the accounts from indigenous communities are often valuable indicators of a species’ existence. He recalls multiple instances where local knowledge proved accurate, allowing him to rediscover “lost” species. For each of these five animals, Galante references stories from locals who claim to have encountered these animals, emphasizing how folklore and tradition often contain real clues about wildlife.

Hope Through Technology

Hope Through Technology
Image Credit: Forrest Galante

One of Galante’s most optimistic points is the potential for new technology to aid in the search for these animals. Sonar scanning, drone technology, and camera traps have transformed wildlife research, allowing scientists to explore previously unreachable areas. In his search for the Yangtze River dolphin, Galante suggests using sonar to scan riverbeds for signs of the dolphin’s unique movement patterns. Such technological advancements could help bridge the gap between folklore and scientific evidence.

Conservation as a Necessary Step

Conservation as a Necessary Step
Image Credit: Forrest Galante

Galante believes that even if these animals are found, their survival will depend on the creation of protected areas and the enforcement of stricter hunting and fishing laws. He argues that conservation practices must be strengthened globally, especially in regions facing rapid development. For animals like the Mexican grizzly bear, which face threats from illegal hunting, conservation could provide the buffer they need to repopulate.

The Broader Significance of Rediscovering Species

The Broader Significance of Rediscovering Species
Image Credit: Forrest Galante

Finding these animals would offer more than just proof of survival; it would symbolize the resilience of nature. Galante points out that the rediscovery of an extinct species is a reminder that the planet still has wild spaces where life can hide, even in an era of rapid urban expansion and climate change. Such discoveries also bring attention to the importance of biodiversity and the need to protect our remaining ecosystems.

Learning from Lost Species

Learning from Lost Species
Image Credit: Forrest Galante

Galante’s interest in potentially extinct animals isn’t solely about finding them – it’s about learning from them. He suggests that each rediscovered species holds lessons about adaptation, survival, and the consequences of human impact on the environment. For instance, the plight of the Yangtze River dolphin highlights the need to address river pollution and preserve habitats, while the Mexican grizzly bear’s story reminds us of the irreversible effects of overhunting.

A Passion for Rediscovery

A Passion for Rediscovery
Image Credit: Forrest Galante

Galante’s hopefulness and dedication are infectious. He maintains a list of over 1,600 species that scientists believe are extinct but which he suspects might still exist. His belief in the survival of these animals underscores a broader mission: to encourage people to care for the planet and protect its wildlife. Galante’s adventures reflect a profound respect for nature’s mysteries and a desire to uncover its hidden stories.

Galante’s work reminds us that some stories might not be over yet in a world where species are disappearing faster than they can be studied. His list of possibly extant species is a testament to his belief in the resilience of nature – a reminder that even in the face of extinction, hope endures.