Scientists find Woolly Mammoth DNA by digging through squirrel waste

by

Researchers discovered traces of DNA from various animals – even the extinct woolly mammoth – within the preserved droppings of squirrels.

Arctic ground squirrels haven’t changed much over thousands of years. They’re awake for about four months, then hibernate for the rest of the year. Before hibernating, they gather lots of supplies – nuts, seeds, bones, fur, and more – to fill their burrows.

In parts of Canada’s Yukon territory, thawing permafrost has revealed ancient burrows completely frozen shut, acting like natural time capsules. Scientists have explored these burrows and recorded what they found inside.

The researchers found DNA of many other animals

A recent study revealed surprisingly old squirrel droppings in underground burrows – some dating back as far as 700,000 years! Scientists extracted DNA from these samples and discovered genetic traces of animals that lived long ago, like wolves, bison, horses, cheetahs, and even plants. Most excitingly, they found DNA from the woolly mammoth, a species now extinct. Using this DNA, researchers were able to recreate 18 complete mitochondrial genomes, including those of six different mammoths.

According to Tyler Murchie, the lead author of the study, analyzing squirrel droppings might not seem as exciting as finding a mammoth tusk, but it’s actually a surprisingly good method for understanding what life was like long ago.

Researchers are releasing their genetic findings publicly. This could help companies like Colossal Laboratories, which are working to revive the woolly mammoth, achieve their goals.

Read More

2026-06-14 21:48