First Cloned Black-Footed Ferret Gives Birth, Marking Conservation Milestone

Antonia, cloned from genetic material preserved since 1988, delivers healthy kits, boosting genetic diversity efforts.

The birth of Antonia's kits at the Smithsonian National Zoo marks the first time a cloned endangered species has successfully reproduced.
Antonia was cloned from Willa, a black-footed ferret whose genetic material was preserved in 1988, introducing new genetic diversity to the species.
The successful breeding is seen as a significant step in using cloning technology to enhance genetic diversity in conservation efforts.
Only two of the three kits survived, but they are reported to be in good health and meeting developmental milestones.
The black-footed ferret, once thought extinct, has been the focus of major recovery efforts, with cloning offering new hope for the species' survival.