Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Ancient Marsupials Rediscovered in Papua: A Scientific Triumph

3/5/2026

45 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Researchers led by Tim Flannery discovered two marsupial species in West Papua's Vogelkop region, extinct for 6,000 years.
The pygmy long-fingered possum and ring-tailed glider are Lazarus taxa.
The study relies on local Indigenous knowledge and highlights the need to protect these forests.
Flannery called the finding a crowning glory and noted potential for more discoveries.
The results appear in a special edition of a peer-reviewed journal.

1 of 1

Story summary

Researchers led by Tim Flannery discovered two marsupial species in West Papua's Vogelkop region, extinct for 6,000 years.
The pygmy long-fingered possum and ring-tailed glider are Lazarus taxa.
The study relies on local Indigenous knowledge and highlights the need to protect these forests.
Flannery called the finding a crowning glory and noted potential for more discoveries.
The results appear in a special edition of a peer-reviewed journal.