Two 'Extinct' Marsupials Found Alive in New Guinea

Two marsupials believed extinct for 6,000 years have been photographed alive in the remote rainforests of New Guinea, stunning scientists worldwide.

The pygmy long-fingered possum and ring-tailed glider are rare "Lazarus species," animals that seemingly return from extinction. Finding even one Lazarus mammal is "almost zero" probability, says zoologist Tim Flannery of the Australian Museum. Discovering two is "unprecedented and groundbreaking."

Until now, scientists only knew these creatures from ancient fossils. But they suspected life might persist in the difficult-to-reach forests of Bird's Head Peninsula, an area that broke off from Australia millions of years ago and merged with New Guinea.

The pygmy long-fingered possum stretches about 14 inches from nose to tail, with one exceptionally long digit on each hand. Scientists believe these specialized fingers help the animal fish grubs from rotting wood after using its unique ears to detect low-frequency sounds from beetle larvae.

The ring-tailed glider represents an entirely new genus that researchers named Tous, honoring the Indigenous term "Tous wansai." This nocturnal creature uses its powerful tail to grip branches as it feeds on tree sap, leaves, and possibly fruit.

Researchers worked closely with the Tambrauw and Maybrat Indigenous peoples, who have known about these animals all along. These communities revere the ring-tailed glider as representing their ancestors' spirits and protect the old-growth forests where both species live.

Why This Inspires

In an era of environmental challenges, this discovery proves remote ecosystems still hold precious secrets. The partnership between scientists and Indigenous communities shows how traditional knowledge and modern research can work together to protect biodiversity.

The collaboration also demonstrates that some species may survive in refuges we haven't fully explored. Indigenous peoples' deep respect for these forests has likely helped preserve habitat that keeps both marsupials alive today.

Scientists are keeping the animals' exact locations confidential to prevent wildlife traffickers from capturing them. Both species face threats from logging and habitat loss, making protection efforts urgent.

Researchers now want to map exactly where these creatures live and understand their ecological needs to ensure they survive another 6,000 years and beyond.