Indigenous Knowledge and Camera Traps Confirm Existence of Rare Echidna

In a significant breakthrough for conservation and biodiversity, researchers have confirmed the presence of the long-lost Attenborough’s long-beaked echidna (Zaglossus attenboroughi) in Indonesia’s Cyclops Mountains, aided by Indigenous knowledge and sophisticated camera trap technology. This rare species, known to be critically endangered, was last documented over six decades ago, raising concerns about its survival and habitat. The confirmation was made possible through a collaborative effort involving Indigenous communities, government agencies, and academic researchers, showcasing the critical role of local knowledge in modern conservation efforts.

The expedition, which took place between 2022 and 2023, involved the deployment of camera traps in areas identified through consultations with local Indigenous groups, such as the Yongsu Sapari and Yongsu Dosoyo communities. “We would not have succeeded without their support and input,” stated Malcolm Kobak, co-author of the study and a representative of the local NGO YAPPENDA. The collaboration allowed researchers to access sacred lands and strategically place camera traps, leading to the capture of 110 photographs and 15 videos of the echidna, including footage indicating potential mating behaviors.

Attenborough’s long-beaked echidna, named in honor of the renowned naturalist David Attenborough, is one of only five extant species of monotremes, mammals that lay eggs rather than give live birth. The creature was first identified in 1998, based on a specimen collected in 1961, but remained elusive for decades. The recent findings underscore the species' critical status, as it is listed as critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. According to James Kempton, a co-author from the University of Oxford, the discovery raises hopes for the species’ future and indicates a breeding population may exist in the Cyclops Mountains, a stark contrast to its presumed extinction in the Oenake Mountains of Papua New Guinea due to overhunting.

Kempton emphasized the importance of recognizing Indigenous and local knowledge in conservation strategies, noting, “It is vital that we view Indigenous knowledge not just as supplementary but as an integral component of effective conservation efforts.” This sentiment is echoed by Gison Morib, study lead from YAPPENDA, who continues to engage in field research to further understand the ecological dynamics of the region.

Despite the promising findings, the researchers highlighted the challenges faced in conservation financing and biodiversity research in the Indonesian half of New Guinea. The study aims to draw attention to these issues and attract further support for ongoing research initiatives. The findings were documented in a recent report, reinforcing the need for a concerted global effort to conserve the remaining populations of Z. attenboroughi and their unique habitats.

As global biodiversity faces unprecedented threats from habitat loss and climate change, this study exemplifies the potential of integrating traditional ecological knowledge with modern scientific methods. The collaboration between researchers and Indigenous communities not only opens new avenues for conservation but also sets a precedent for future ecological research worldwide. The ongoing efforts in the Cyclops Mountains serve as a hopeful reminder of the resilience of nature and the critical role of Indigenous stewardship in preserving biodiversity for generations to come.