For more than three centuries, the dodo has been the undisputed mascot of extinction. The chunky, flightless bird waddled its way into history books after disappearing from the island of Mauritius in the late 1600s, thanks largely to human hunting and invasive animals introduced by sailors.
But now, scientists are wondering if the dodo’s story might not be over after all.
A team of researchers working with the biotechnology company Colossal Biosciences has launched an ambitious effort to resurrect the bird using advanced genetic engineering and stem-cell technology—more than 350 years after the species vanished from Earth.
In other words: the world’s most famous extinct bird may be staging a comeback tour.
How Do You Bring Back a Bird That’s Been Gone Since the 1600s?
The plan doesn’t involve digging up a perfectly preserved dodo egg and sticking it in an incubator. Unfortunately, Jurassic Park rules still apply.
Instead, scientists are working with the dodo’s closest living relative—the Nicobar pigeon. By studying ancient DNA and sequencing the dodo’s genome, researchers hope to edit pigeon cells so that they gradually resemble the genetic makeup of the extinct bird.
The process involves growing specialized reproductive cells—known as primordial germ cells—that eventually become eggs or sperm. If those cells can be successfully edited with dodo traits, scientists could theoretically produce embryos that develop into a modern version of the long-lost bird.
Recently, the team announced a significant milestone: they managed to successfully culture these reproductive cells in pigeons, something that had never been done before outside a few bird species. Researchers say the breakthrough could eventually lead to a living dodo within the next five to seven years—though plenty of scientific hurdles remain.
Why Bring the Dodo Back?
Aside from the obvious “because we can,” scientists argue the project could help modern conservation efforts.
The same genetic technologies used to recreate extinct traits could also help protect endangered species by increasing genetic diversity or restoring lost ecosystems.
In theory, a revived population of dodos could even be reintroduced to Mauritius, their original home, once safe habitats are established.
Of course, not everyone is convinced this is a good idea.
Some critics argue that focusing on resurrecting extinct species risks distracting from protecting animals that are currently on the brink of disappearing. Others question whether a genetically engineered “dodo-like” bird would truly be the same species that vanished centuries ago.
The Dodo’s Second Act?
Still, the idea that one of history’s most famous lost animals might one day return has captured the imagination of scientists and the public alike.
After all, the dodo didn’t just disappear quietly. It became a symbol of extinction itself—proof that once a species is gone, it’s gone for good.
Unless, perhaps, modern genetics has something to say about it.
If the researchers behind this project succeed, the phrase “dead as a dodo” may need a serious update.
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