Peter Jackson Collaborates to Revive Extinct Moa Bird in New Zealand

In a groundbreaking initiative, filmmaker Peter Jackson has joined forces with Colossal Biosciences and New Zealand's Ngāi Tahu Research Centre to revive the moa, an extinct flightless bird that roamed New Zealand's landscapes until approximately 600 years ago. This ambitious project aims to resurrect the South Island Giant Moa, which stood at an impressive 12 feet tall and weighed around 400 pounds, thus making it one of the largest birds to have ever existed.

The collaboration was formally announced on [Date], marking a significant step towards the de-extinction of this iconic species, which comprised nine different varieties before its extinction, largely attributed to human activities following the settlement of Polynesians in New Zealand. Jackson, who has invested $10 million into Colossal Biosciences, expressed his hope of eventually bringing back all nine moa species, stating, "When you grow up in New Zealand, you grow up knowing about the moa. It’s just something that’s in our DNA."

Colossal Biosciences, known for its previous claims of reviving the dire wolf, employs advanced genetic techniques to reconstruct the genetic makeup of extinct species. The company aims to use genome mapping and genetic engineering to create a living approximation of the moa using the DNA of related species, such as the tinamou, a bird native to Central and South America.

The moa project is not just a scientific endeavor; it is also deeply rooted in cultural significance. Kyle Davis, an archaeologist with the Ngāi Tahu Research Centre, emphasized the importance of the moa in Māori culture, describing it as a "taonga," or treasured entity. He remarked, "This animal features in our oral histories. It’s iconic and hugely significant to us."

Colossal's approach to this project is distinctive, as it positions itself as a supportive partner to the Māori community, emphasizing indigenous leadership in scientific endeavors. Lamm stated, "Going back to the spirit of the partnership, it’s really up to the Ngāi Tahu. We look at ourselves as supporters of their vision."

The project plans to utilize Jackson’s extensive collection of moa bones, which he and his partner Fran Walsh have been gathering for years. This collection will be instrumental in the research and genetic sequencing necessary for the revival process. According to Jackson, the bones have already been sampled for DNA, further facilitating the project’s goals.

While the initial focus is on resurrecting the moa, the partnership also aims to contribute to broader ecological restoration efforts in New Zealand. Lamm noted that funds from Colossal would also support the preservation of other endangered species in the region, aligning with the Ngāi Tahu Research Centre’s conservation goals.

Despite the excitement surrounding this project, it is not without skepticism. Some scientists have raised concerns about the feasibility of such de-extinction efforts, citing challenges in accurately reconstructing the genetic makeup of extinct species. Critics of Colossal's previous claims regarding the dire wolf have called the company's assertions "misleading," highlighting the complexity and ethical implications of reviving extinct animals.

If successful, the moa project could lead to the establishment of ecological preserves in New Zealand, where these birds could be studied and potentially reintroduced into the wild after extensive research and preparation. Jackson cautioned against hastily releasing the giant moa into natural habitats, explaining, "New Zealand’s a very different country now than it was 600 years ago. There are roads, cars, and cities. It’s not necessarily a good idea to just release it into the wild."

Looking forward, Lamm envisions this project as a source of inspiration for ecological and biodiversity initiatives, potentially boosting ecotourism in New Zealand. The moa’s revival could serve not only as a scientific milestone but also as a cultural renaissance, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of New Zealand's unique fauna and heritage. As the project progresses, the partnership between Colossal Biosciences and the Ngāi Tahu Research Centre may pave the way for a new era of indigenous-led scientific innovation and ecological stewardship.