Kaili Dence - De-extinctis

De-extinctis Kaili Dence

The Past Imagine a utopian North American Ice Age landscape dating back 10,000 years. Snow-covered tundra was populated by a variety of species including the Woolly Mammoth. De-extinction, or resurrection biology, is dedicated to the pursuit of bringing back select extinct species. Could these species co-exist with humans and play an ecological role in today’s environment? Or would they be held captive, exploited for the sole purpose of satisfying human curiosity and entertainment?

The Present Zoos hold wildlife in captivity for the enjoyment of zoo goers at the expense of captive animals. Animals that may have covered miles in a day are confined to cages. To help preserve and increase the populations of endangered species, some zoos engage in captive breeding programs at great expense, but often with limited success. While the birth of an animal is always met with joy and excitement, the sad reality is they will likely never freely roam outside of a zoo. If habitat destruction continues will more and more species exist only in zoos?

The Future De-extinction seeks to resurrect select charismatic species. Within the decade we are facing the loss of one million species. What must be done to reverse this trend? We could focus on habitat preservation and endangered species protection. Or if we choose to enter the lab and cook up a cocktail of Woolly Mammoth and Asian Elephant DNA, what do we get? What habitat do we create for it?

Does it survive on a planet significantly warmer and dirtier than the one it left thousands of years ago? Or does it end up in a dystopian environment with a collection of hybrid species that we offer up as an exhibition of the folly of humankind?

What Can You Do To Help?

Reduce Reuse Recycle

Eliminate Pesticides

Use Public Transportation

Volunteer & Inspire Change