Feathers of ‘fire’ and species once thought extinct: See new animal discoveries

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 recent discoveries:

Rare species — once declared extinct in the wild — rediscovered in French Polynesia

On a small island in the South Pacific Ocean, the Moorean viviparous tree snail, once declared extinct in the wild, has been rediscovered. This species, native to French Polynesia, was decimated by the invasive rosy wolf snail but has been successfully reintroduced into its natural habitat thanks to conservation efforts. The discovery of wild-born snails suggests successful breeding, marking a significant milestone in reversing biodiversity loss. | Published March 28 | Read More |

‘Large’-mouthed aquarium pet turns out to be new species in India. See the creature

In northeastern India, a new species of fish named Channa nachi, or Farham’s snakehead fish, has been discovered in a river in Meghalaya. This “dwarf” fish, reaching about 5 inches in length, was identified by its unique coloring and large mouth. The species was initially mistaken for another and exported to Japan, highlighting the importance of accurate species identification. | Published March 31 | Read More |

Armless creature with clawed toes found in Australian outback. It’s a new species

In the Gulf Plains Bioregion of northern Queensland, Australia, researchers have uncovered a new species of lizard called Lerista karichigara, or the Tagalaka slider. These armless lizards, with clawed toes and an angular snout, were found burrowing in the soil near trees. The discovery highlights the biodiversity of the region and the potential for finding more new species. | Published March 31 | Read More |

Rare creature was elusive for years. Then it reappeared on trail camera — with cubs

In Thailand’s Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary, a female tiger known as F22 was spotted on camera with her two cubs, marking a hopeful sign for the local tiger population. First seen in 2022, F22 had eluded researchers until recent images confirmed her presence and that of her healthy cubs. This sighting suggests successful conservation efforts in the region. | Published April 1 | Read More |

Rare creature — with feathers of ‘fire’ — captured on trail camera in Malaysia. See it

In Malaysia, the critically endangered Malay Crestless Fireback pheasant was captured on a trail camera in the Ulu Sat Forest Reserve. Known for its striking fiery plumage, this rare bird faces threats from habitat loss and is dependent on ground-level forests. The sighting underscores the urgent need for conservation to prevent its extinction. | Published April 2 | 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 April 4, 2025 at 9:57 AM with the headline "Feathers of ‘fire’ and species once thought extinct: See new animal discoveries."