Rediscovered predators and ‘ghost’-like creatures: See the latest animal finds

The summaries below were drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All linked stories were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.

Unique creatures, odd animals and new species are discovered across the planet. Some are found lurking in remote corners of the world, while others have been hiding right under our noses.

Learn more about some of the best new discoveries:

‘Ghost’ creature — with visible organs — found under dying tree roots. See new species

On Colón Island, Panama, a new species of shrimp was discovered under dying mangrove roots. Known as Trichocallia delicatula, this “beautiful hairy ghost shrimp” is characterized by its translucent body and “tubular, hair-like” growths. The shrimp was found in shallow water along the Caribbean coast of Panama. | Published Feb. 13 | Read More |

2-foot-long mammal — ‘completely spiny’ — turns out to be new species in Colombia

In the forests of central Colombia, researchers identified a new species of porcupine named Coendou vossi. This “completely spiny” mammal was distinguished by its unique habitat and genetic divergence from other porcupines. The porcupine is mainly nocturnal and feeds mostly on fruit. | Published Feb. 13 | Read More |

Creature of folklore — once feared extinct — seen sunbathing in Thailand, video shows

A Siamese crocodile, once thought nearly extinct, was spotted in Thailand’s Yod Dom Wildlife Sanctuary. This rare sighting, captured on a trail camera, highlights ongoing conservation efforts for this “medium-sized” predator. The species remains critically endangered due to habitat loss and hunting. | Published Feb. 18 | Read More |

‘Large’ creature with ‘long’ limbs found lurking in Thailand cave. It’s a new species

In southeastern Thailand, scientists discovered a new species of gecko, the Shiva tokay gecko, in a cave. This “large” gecko with “long” limbs and “greenish gold” eyes was named after the Hindu god Shiva. The gecko is nocturnal and lives in and around limestone caves. | Published Feb. 18 | Read More |

6-foot-long sea creature — with ‘sharp’ snout — discovered as new species in Colombia

Off Colombia’s coast, a new species of stingray, the longnose Pacific stingray, was identified. This “large-sized” sea creature with a “sharp” snout was found during a two-decade study of local marine life. The stingray is used as a food source by local fishing communities. | Published Feb. 20 | Read More |

McClatchy News continues to follow the discovery of the most unusual and intriguing new species. Check back for the latest studies.

This story was originally published February 21, 2025 at 8:38 AM with the headline "Rediscovered predators and ‘ghost’-like creatures: See the latest animal finds."