Finding Species Thought to Be Lost

While we often hear about endangered species and extinction, we also get good news each year—species that were thought to be extinct have been found again. Learn about some examples of these "Lazarus species," from the rediscovery of the coelacanth fish in the mid-20th century to the recent find of an individual Galapagos tortoise, a previously “extinct” species that was last sighted in the wild more than 100 years ago. Biologist and Expedition Leader Eleanor Edye will explain what it means when a species is labeled as extinct, endangered or extirpated, along with the differences between these scientific classifications. Find out how many species are being rediscovered each year, how it's possible for a species to remain undetected by researchers, how populations of some rediscovered species are doing now, and what all this means for conservation efforts in the 21st century. You’ll gain a greater understanding of some of the species that were thought to be extinct and get ideas for how you can contribute to the protection of threatened wildlife worldwide.


Originally presented June 21, 2021

Traveler Resources