Scientists Dug Through Ancient Squirrel Poop And Found a Huge Surprise - ScienceAlert
Scientists in Canada's Yukon territory discovered a vast trove of ancient DNA, dating back up to 700,000 years, preserved in frozen squirrel feces. This genetic material, found in sealed burrows, includes DNA from extinct woolly mammoths, wolves, bison, and various plants, offering a unique glimpse into past ecosystems. The discovery highlights the unexpected value of squirrel burrows as natural time capsules due to their hoarding habits and permafrost preservation.
Why it matters
This discovery provides an unprecedented window into ancient biodiversity and climate change over millennia, potentially aiding de-extinction efforts and enhancing our understanding of evolutionary history. It also demonstrates novel methods for paleogenomic research, expanding the types of samples scientists can use.
Add ScienceAlert on Google Frozen squirrel feces preserved ancient DNA for up to 700,000 years. (Scott Crocker/Hakai Institute/YouTube) A huge treasure trove of ancient DNA from animals including extinct woolly mammoths has been discovered in frozen squirrel feces in Canada's remote Yukon territory, scientists said Tuesday.
The article reports on a scientific discovery using objective language and expert quotes, without any discernible political or ideological slant.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in