Two healthy black-footed ferret kits at 6-weeks old, born to cloned black-footed ferret Antonia. The kits mark the first time a cloned U.S. endangered species has produced offspring | Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute
USFWS, Revive & Restore, and Partners Announce the world’s first successful reproduction of a cloned endangered species.
DENVER, CO / November 1, 2024 — Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and conservation partners are excited to announce a groundbreaking achievement in endangered species research: the first-ever birth of black-footed ferrets produced by a cloned endangered animal. This historic event took place at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) in Front Royal, Virginia.
Antonia, a cloned black-footed ferret, has successfully given birth to two healthy offspring after mating with Urchin, a 3-year-old male black-footed ferret at Smithsonian’s NZCBI. This marks the first time a cloned U.S. endangered species has produced offspring, showcasing a critical step forward in using cloning to enhance genetic diversity in conservation efforts. While one of the three kits passed away shortly after birth, two—one male and one female—are in good health and meeting developmental milestones under the care of NZCBI carnivore keepers. Antonia and her kits will remain at the facility for further research, with no current plans to release them into the wild.
Meet the Mom: Cloned black-footed ferret, Antonia, born in May 2023 at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute in Virginia. Antonia was cloned from cells cryopreserved in 1988, so she carries genetic material absent from all wild black-footed ferrets | Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute
Antonia was cloned from tissue samples collected in 1988 from a black-footed ferret named Willa, whose genetic material was preserved at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s Frozen Zoo. This technology has been pioneered by partners at Revive & Restore and ViaGen Pets & Equine. Willa’s samples contain three times the genetic diversity seen in the current population of black-footed ferrets, all of which (except the three clones and new offspring) are descended from just seven surviving individuals. The introduction of these previously unrepresented genes could play a key role in increasing the species’ genetic diversity, which is vital to healthy, long-term recovery.
The successful reproduction of a cloned endangered species is a landmark in conservation genetic research, proving that cloning technology can not only help restore genetic diversity but also allow for future breeding, opening new possibilities for species recovery. This represents a significant step in safeguarding the future of black-footed ferrets and overcoming the genetic challenges that have hindered recovery efforts.
“This project represents a historic milestone in conservation history. For the first time, we can definitively say that cloning contributed meaningful genetic variation back into a breeding population. As these kits move forward in the breeding program, the impact of this work will multiply, building a more robust and resilient population over time. We are excited to have been a part of changing the future of this species!”
Ryan Phelan, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Revive & Restore
This scientific achievement is the result of collaboration between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and partners such as the Smithsonian’s NZCBI, Revive & Restore, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, ViaGen Pets & Equine, and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Cloning offers an important tool in addressing genetic bottlenecks and disease threats, such as sylvatic plague and canine distemper, that complicate recovery efforts for black-footed ferrets.
While this technology represents a promising new approach, it is one of many strategies being employed to aid species recovery. The Service continues to focus on habitat conservation, disease management, and the reintroduction of ferrets into the wild. Ongoing efforts include the development of disease resistance and habitat restoration across the Great Plains, in collaboration with states, tribes, landowners, and other conservation partners.
About the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service works with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. For more information, visit www.fws.gov and connect with us on social media.
About Revive & Restore
Revive & Restore is the leading wildlife conservation organization promoting the incorporation of biotechnologies into standard conservation practice. The Sausalito, California nonprofit was formed in 2012 with the idea that 21st century biotechnology can and should be used to enhance genetic diversity, build disease resistance, facilitate adaptation and more. Its mission is to enhance biodiversity through the genetic rescue of endangered and extinct species. Learn more about our work with black-footed ferrets here.
About ViaGen Pets & Equine
ViaGen Pets and Equine is the worldwide leader in cloning the animals we love. For over 20 years, we have been committed to the health and well-being of every animal we work with. Our team includes leading scientists, and we believe that moving the promising and exciting area of animal genetic research forward will benefit all animals.
About the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a nonprofit international conservation leader, committed to inspiring a passion for nature and working toward a world where all life thrives. The Alliance empowers people from around the globe to support their mission to conserve wildlife through innovation and partnerships. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance supports cutting–edge conservation and brings the stories of their work back to the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park—giving millions of guests, in person and virtually, the opportunity to experience conservation in action.
About the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) leads the Smithsonian’s global effort to save species, better understand ecosystems and train future generations of conservationists. Its two campuses are home to some of the world’s most critically endangered species. Always free of charge, the Zoo’s 163-acre park in the heart of Washington, D.C., features 2,100 animals representing 400 species and is a popular destination for children and families. At the Conservation Biology Institute’s 3,200-acre campus in Virginia, breeding and veterinary research on 250 animals representing 20 species provide critical data for the management of animals in human care and valuable insights for conservation of wild populations. NZCBI’s more than 300 staff and scientists work in Washington, D.C., Virginia and with partners at field sites across the United States and in more than 30 countries to save wildlife, collaborate with communities and conserve native habitats. NZCBI is a long-standing accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
About the Association of Zoos and Aquariums
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), founded in 1924, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, animal wellbeing, education, science, and recreation. AZA is the accrediting body for the top zoos and aquariums in the United States and 12 other countries. Look for the AZA accreditation logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. The AZA is a leader in saving species and your connection to helping animals all over the world.
More Black-Footed Ferret News
