In an inspiring turn of events for wildlife lovers, a species believed extinct for more than 80 years has made a stunning comeback.
The De Winton’s golden mole, which hasn’t been sighted since 1937, has recently been rediscovered amidst the sandy dunes of South Africa.
This extraordinary creature is unlike typical moles that dig through soil; instead, it thrives in sandy terrain, weaving intricate tunnels through which it navigates its environment.
The Rediscovery Journey
The path to this remarkable rediscovery was paved with innovative research techniques.
Scientists gathered over 100 samples of sand, conducting analyses for environmental DNA (eDNA)—a cutting-edge method that detects genetic material left by animals in their surroundings.
Conservation geneticist Samantha Mynhardt remained hopeful throughout the process, asserting that if the De Winton’s golden mole still roamed the dunes, their advanced detection methods would reveal its DNA.
Traditionally, this rare species inhabits a narrowly defined area—specifically, Port Nolloth on South Africa’s Northwest coast.
With other golden mole species in close proximity, the research team faced the challenge of distinguishing the De Winton’s from its more familiar counterparts.
After discovering fresh tracks, they enlisted the help of a specially trained sniffer dog, accustomed to identifying the scents of Cape and Grant’s golden moles.
The dog’s non-response to the tracks hinted at the presence of something extraordinary.
Breakthrough Discoveries
When the eDNA test results arrived, they unveiled DNA from common golden moles, alongside two other genetic samples—one linked to the endangered Van Zyl’s golden mole and another that remained unidentified.
Researchers speculated that the unknown DNA belonged to the elusive De Winton’s. Their suspicions were confirmed only after they secured a DNA sample from a preserved specimen stored at the Iziko South African Museum, revealing matching genetic markers—a major breakthrough in their search.
Since that initial find, researchers have uncovered four more populations of the De Winton’s golden mole, bolstering the belief that remnants of this incredible species had survived unnoticed.
Cobus Theron, a senior conservation manager with the Endangered Wildlife Trust, had no doubt that the creature still existed, confidently stating that with the right techniques and dedicated teamwork, rediscovery was entirely feasible.
Significance of the Discovery
The thrill of rediscovering this species transcends the excitement surrounding the moles themselves; it demonstrates the potential for using eDNA to locate other endangered or vanished species.
Although they share some similarities with traditional moles, golden moles like the De Winton’s belong to a distinct family, most closely related to otter shrews and tenrecs.
This fascinating relationship highlights evolutionary convergence, where different species develop similar characteristics over time, showcasing nature’s ingenuity.
Golden moles possess robust claws suited for burrowing and choose to live underground, mirroring the behaviors of their mole cousins.
The return of the De Winton’s golden mole stands as a powerful reminder of nature’s resilience and the critical need for ongoing conservation efforts.
Each successful discovery not only sparks hope but also strengthens our resolve to protect the irreplaceable diversity of life on our planet.
Source: Thegoodnewshub