Rare Lord Howe Island Stick Insects Rediscovered

0:00On March 14th, here's the latest out of Adelaide. Researchers have found new colonies of the rare Lord Howe Island stick insect on Balls Pyramid, a remote volcanic rock off Australia. Known as the tree lobster, this species was once thought extinct after rats wiped it out on its native island over a century ago. The insects are masters of camouflage, making them tough to spot. During a recent survey by New South Wales Environment Officers, teams discovered nine adults at two new spots on the Pyramid, which towers five, 172 meters high. Seven were captured and sent over 1,000 kilometers to Melbourne Zoo for breeding. This marks 25 years since the insect was first rediscovered there in 2001. Experts are thrilled with the find. The Australian Museum calls it, possibly the rarest insect on earth, with fewer than 50 mature ones left in the wild. Zoo specialist Rohan Cleve says these new arrivals bring fresh genetics to boost the captive population, which now hovers between 700 and 800 insects.

1:03Melbourne Zoo has led an international breeding program for 23 years, partnering with zoos in San Diego, Bristol, Toronto, and Prague. They bred 19 generations from just the handful of wild insects, drawing praise from folks like Sir David Adamborough. Recently, Prague Zoo hatched 13 of their own. Rat eradication on Lord Howe Island last year has sparked hope for reintroduction. Officials say the island's biodiversity is rebounding, with seabirds and snails thriving. Future plans target high mountain preserves to give the tree lobsters their best shot at coming home. The Daily News Now is made possible with support from our sponsor. When you need a moment alone, just lay back and listen. S-O-L-I, solelypillow.com.