For the first time in human history, a species extinct for over 10,000 years has been brought back to life. Colossal Biosciences, a US-based biotechnology firm, announced the revival of the dire wolf (Aenocyon dirus), a formidable predator that once roamed North America.
Using ancient DNA extracted from fossilised remains—a 13,000-year-old tooth and a 72,000-year-old skull—the company successfully engineered three pups: Romulus and Remus, born on 1 October 2024, and Khaleesi, born on 31 January 2025. This milestone, dubbed the world’s first de-extinction, marks a leap in genetic engineering, blending science fiction with reality.
How it was achieved
The process began with sequencing DNA from dire wolf fossils, comparing it to the grey wolf (Canis lupus), their closest living relative. Colossal’s team identified 20 key genetic differences across 14 genes, responsible for traits like larger size, white fur, and powerful jaws. Using CRISPR technology, they edited grey wolf cells to express these traits, avoiding direct splicing of ancient DNA. The modified nuclei were inserted into denucleated grey wolf eggs, which were then implanted into surrogate hound mixes. After successful gestation, the pups were born via caesarean section, with Romulus and Remus emerging in October 2024 and Khaleesi following in January 2025.
Life in a modern world
The trio now resides in a 2,000-acre preserve in the US, its location undisclosed for their safety. Surrounded by 10-foot fencing and monitored 24/7, they receive a diet of beef, horse, and deer meat. At six months, Romulus and Remus weigh 36.3 kg each, projected to reach 68 kg—far larger than typical grey wolves. Khaleesi, younger at two months, remains separated until she can join her brothers, forming a small pack in a controlled habitat.
Elon Musk reacted
Elon Musk reacted on X, sharing images of the pups—one mimicking a TIME cover with “Extinct” crossed out, another showing them on a Game of Thrones-style throne. He wrote, “Please make a miniature pet woolly mammoth,”.
Implications and debates
Colossal hails this as a conservation breakthrough, refining techniques for species like the woolly mammoth. Yet, critics question if these are true dire wolves, given their grey wolf base, and debate the ethics of de-extinction. Regardless, the pups symbolise a new frontier in science.
