University of Otago zoologist Prof Phil Seddon with a model of a moa at Otago Museum and examples of other extinct species. Until recently, technological advancements had far outpaced discussion about the risks of reintroducing extinct animals to the environment. The ecological gap that extinct species once filled might also no longer exist, which meant species could become re-extinct. These risks meant scientists needed to be careful when choosing what animals to bring back and judge whether their reintroduction would be successful. If successful, reintroduced animals could become flagship species for conservation, restore biodiversity and bring economic benefits through tourism.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 02, 2017 17:03 UTC