The remarkable rediscovery of the De Winton’s Golden Mole: Unveiling a mystery 86 years in the making.
In the remote dunes near the coastal town of Port Nolloth in northwest South Africa, a mystery that endured for 86 years has finally been unraveled. The De Winton’s golden mole, an elusive and iridescent creature not recorded since 1937, has been rediscovered, proving resilient against the brink of extinction. This extraordinary find not only sheds light on the unique characteristics of the mole but also underscores the crucial role of dedicated conservation efforts in safeguarding our planet’s biodiversity.
The Elusive Mole: A Mystery Unveiled
The De Winton’s golden mole, scientifically known as Cryptochloris wintoni, earned its “golden” name from the oily secretions that lubricate its fur, allowing it to elegantly “swim” through the sand dunes. Living in underground burrows, this blind creature relies on its highly sensitive hearing, bolting at the slightest vibrations caused by movement above ground. Its elusive nature and unconventional tunneling behavior make it exceptionally challenging to detect, leading to fears of extinction since its last sighting in 1937.
See also: Rediscovery of Attenborough’s Long Beaked Echidna.
The Search Team and Jessie the Dog
A two-year search led by conservationists from the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) and the University of Pretoria brought forth a unique ally in the form of Jessie, a border collie specially trained to sniff out golden moles. Esther Matthew, senior field officer at EWT, expressed the excitement of being part of a team looking for lost species, noting, “The cherry on the cake is finding one.” Jessie’s role involved alerting the team by lying down when she detected the scent, leading to the collection of soil samples for further analysis.
Methodology: eDNA and Genetic Sequencing
The methodology employed by the researchers involved environmental DNA (eDNA) testing, a cutting-edge technique that detects DNA from skin cells, urine, feces, and mucous released by the moles as they move through the dunes. Each time Jessie signaled, a soil sample was collected, and later, the samples were genetically sequenced for confirmation. Despite the physical resemblance of De Winton’s golden mole to other golden mole species, genetic sequencing proved instrumental in confirming the rediscovery.
The Joy of Rediscovery
The rediscovery of the De Winton’s golden mole is not only a triumph for conservationists but also a testament to the resilience of nature. Cobus Theron, senior conservation manager at EWT, expressed his faith in the species’ survival, stating, “Though many people doubted that De Winton’s golden mole was still out there, I had good faith that the species had not yet gone extinct.” The finding not only solves a decades-long riddle but also opens avenues for further exploration into the eDNA frontier, offering opportunities for the conservation of other imperiled species.
Jessie’s Contribution and Rewards
Jessie’s invaluable contribution to the discovery was rewarded in a simple yet heartwarming manner – playing with her tennis ball. The collaborative effort between human researchers and their canine team member underscores the importance of leveraging various skills and abilities in the pursuit of conservation goals. The partnership exemplifies the power of teamwork and the indispensable role animals can play in ecological research.
Environmental DNA Frontier: A New Avenue for Conservation
Cobus Theron’s mention of tapping into the eDNA frontier highlights a significant leap in conservation technologies. The ability to detect traces of DNA left behind by elusive creatures not only aids in confirming their existence but also opens new possibilities for monitoring and protecting imperiled species. As the scientific community delves deeper into this frontier, the potential for uncovering more mysteries of the natural world becomes increasingly promising.
Implications for Golden Mole Conservation
The discovery of De Winton’s golden mole is part of a broader context involving 21 known species of golden moles, with the majority residing in South Africa. The research team’s findings also included evidence of three other mole species, including the endangered Van Zyl’s golden mole. This broader understanding of the golden mole population underscores the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the importance of comprehensive conservation strategies.
Conservation Challenges and Opportunities
While the rediscovery brings a sense of triumph, the newfound population of De Winton’s golden moles faces immediate threats. The area around Port Nolloth, though believed to be home to a healthy population of these moles, lacks protection and is under the looming threat of diamond mining. Urgent conservation measures are required to safeguard not only the recently discovered mole population but also the delicate balance of the entire ecosystem.
Conclusion: The Fragile Balance of Nature
In conclusion, the rediscovery of the De Winton’s golden mole stands as a testament to the endurance of nature and the unwavering commitment of conservationists. The collaborative efforts, innovative methodologies, and the use of cutting-edge technologies like eDNA signify a new era in conservation science. However, the challenges persist, and the fragile balance of nature remains at risk. As we celebrate the triumphs of rediscovery, it becomes imperative to channel our efforts into preserving and protecting the intricate web of life that defines our planet. The story of the De Winton’s golden mole serves as a poignant reminder of the mysteries yet to be unveiled and the collective responsibility we bear in ensuring the survival of Earth’s diverse and remarkable inhabitants.
