Scientists are embarking on an ambitious project to bring back the dodo bird from extinction after uncovering new genetic information. The dodo, a flightless bird native to the island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean, was last confirmed to be seen in 1662, having been wiped out by visiting sailors and introduced predators like dogs, cats, pigs, and monkeys in the 17th century.

The only remaining soft tissue of the dodo, known as the 'Oxford dodo,' is housed at the Oxford University Museum of Natural History. Paleogeneticist Professor Beth Shapiro led the groundbreaking effort to fully sequence the dodo's genome in March 2022. While recreating a living dodo poses significant challenges, researchers are exploring methods such as cloning to achieve this monumental task.

The project to de-extinct the dodo faces technological hurdles, especially given the complexities of avian reproduction compared to mammals. Despite advancements in genetic technology, scientists like Professor Shapiro emphasize the need for innovative approaches to overcome these obstacles.

The dodo's extinction serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of human activity on biodiversity. As researchers delve into the genetic legacy of the dodo, they aim to shed new light on the species and potentially re-introduce it to its native habitat. Reawakening the dodo would not only be a scientific triumph but also a powerful statement on conservation efforts in the face of man-made extinctions.