Overview

• Colossal Biosciences announced the birth of three wolf cubs genetically modified with traits derived from dire wolf DNA, calling them 'functional dire wolves.'
• Experts dispute the claim, noting the cubs are gray wolves with edited genes and do not meet the scientific criteria for de-extinction.
• The gene-edited cubs are housed in a 2,000-acre ecological preserve, with Colossal stating their goal is ecosystem restoration rather than exact species recreation.
• Independent scientists and conservationists criticize the project, arguing resources should focus on protecting endangered species rather than reviving extinct ones.
• The announcement has been politicized, with U.S. officials citing the project to advocate for deregulation of endangered species protections, sparking further controversy.