Dallas, Texas – July 2026 — Colossal Biosciences has officially announced the successful hatching of the world’s first de-extinct dodo bird, marking a historic milestone in the field of genetic engineering and wildlife conservation.

The newly hatched chick has been named “Pip,” representing what the company describes as a major breakthrough in its mission to restore extinct species through advanced biotechnology.

Historic Announcement

The news was first shared publicly by Matt James (@maqttjamescao) on X (formerly Twitter), where he announced the achievement before the company’s official statement.

Matt James wrote:

“We have done it — after years of incredible work, @Colossal has successfully brought back the dodo bird from extinction. The first chick has hatched safely and they’ve named it Pip. This feels like a turning point for science and conservation. A species we thought was gone forever is here again. More details coming from the team soon. Truly remarkable.”

#DodoRevived #PipTheDodo #Colossal #DeExtinction

The announcement quickly spread across social media, generating excitement among scientists, conservationists, and technology enthusiasts worldwide.

A Landmark Achievement in Conservation Science

Following the announcement, Ben Lamm, Co-Founder and CEO of Colossal Biosciences, described the achievement as a defining moment for modern science.

He stated:

“This is not science fiction—it is science fact. Through years of dedicated research in genomics, CRISPR editing, primordial germ cell culture, and advanced reproductive technologies, our team has turned the impossible into reality. Pip represents hope for lost species and a new chapter in humanity’s responsibility to the planet.”

Building on Proven Scientific Leadership

Founded in 2021 by Ben Lamm and renowned geneticist Dr. George Church, Colossal Biosciences has become a global leader in de-extinction technology and conservation genomics.

The company’s mission is to combine cutting-edge biotechnology with wildlife conservation to help restore extinct species while developing new tools to protect endangered animals.

Major Scientific Achievements

Woolly Mammoth Project

Colossal continues developing genetically engineered Asian elephants carrying woolly mammoth traits.

Major milestones include:

  • Precision gene editing of elephant genomes
  • Creation of the Woolly Mouse proxy in 2025
  • Hybrid mammoth-elephant calves targeted for 2028

Thylacine (Tasmanian Tiger) Project

The company has achieved significant progress toward restoring the extinct Tasmanian tiger through:

  • A 99.9% complete ancient genome
  • Full genome sequencing
  • Stem cell development
  • Artificial uterus technology

Dire Wolf Project

In 2025, Colossal announced the birth of three genetically engineered Dire Wolf pups:

  • Romulus
  • Remus
  • Khaleesi

The project demonstrated the company’s growing capabilities in advanced mammalian gene editing.

Avian Genomics Initiative

Launched in 2023, the initiative focuses on restoring extinct bird species through modern biotechnology.

Key accomplishments include:

  • High-quality dodo genome sequencing
  • Primordial germ cell culture using rock pigeons
  • Artificial egg technology
  • Successful hatching of 26 chickens during testing in May 2026

These breakthroughs ultimately led to the successful birth of Pip.

Partnership with the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation

Colossal has partnered with the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF) to support habitat restoration efforts and explore the long-term possibility of returning dodos to their native home on Mauritius.

Strong Financial Growth

Colossal Biosciences has also experienced remarkable financial success.

The company has:

  • Raised more than $435 million in funding.
  • Achieved a valuation of approximately $10.2 billion following its Series C investment round.

These investments continue supporting the company’s ambitious conservation and biotechnology projects.

Meet Pip

According to Colossal, Pip was created using a combination of advanced genetic technologies, including:

  • Ancient dodo DNA analysis
  • Multiplex genome editing
  • Nicobar pigeon surrogate technology
  • Advanced incubation systems

The newly hatched chick reportedly displays many of the physical characteristics associated with the extinct dodo and is currently thriving under specialized veterinary supervision.

Researchers say the next phase of the project will focus on:

  • Expanding the breeding population
  • Long-term health monitoring
  • Collaborative conservation planning
  • Future rewilding efforts in Mauritius

Conservation Perspective

Vikash Tatayah, Director of Conservation at the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, welcomed the achievement, saying:

“The dodo is woven into the DNA of Mauritius. Colossal’s technologies offer real promise for returning this iconic species.”

About Colossal Biosciences

Colossal Biosciences is the world’s first company dedicated entirely to de-extinction science.

Its mission is to restore biodiversity through advanced genetic technologies while supporting conservation efforts for endangered species.

Current projects include:

  • Woolly Mammoth
  • Dire Wolf
  • Thylacine (Tasmanian Tiger)
  • Dodo Bird
  • Moa
  • Bluebuck

By combining genomics, gene editing, reproductive science, and conservation biology, Colossal aims to develop technologies that not only revive extinct species but also help protect those currently at risk of extinction.

Media Contact

Colossal Biosciences

Email: press@colossal.com

Website: www.colossal.com

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