A Filmmaker's Ambitious Venture into Genetic Engineering and the Revival of an Extinct Bird

Filmmaker Peter Jackson, known for his work in the film industry, possesses a significant private collection of moa bones. This fascination with the extinct, flightless bird has led to a unique collaboration with a biotechnology company known for its ambitious plans to revive extinct species.

Colossal Biosciences recently announced an initiative to genetically engineer living birds to resemble the extinct South Island giant moa. This project is backed by a $15-million investment from Jackson and his partner, Fran Walsh. The collaboration also involves the Ngāi Tahu Research Centre based in New Zealand. Jackson views this project as a personal passion, stating that the moa holds a special place in the hearts of New Zealanders.

While the concept of bringing back extinct species is met with skepticism by some scientists, the project aims to modify the genes of existing animals to exhibit similar physical traits. The moa, which roamed New Zealand for thousands of years before becoming extinct around 600 years ago, is the focus of this endeavor.

The moa project is in its early stages, initiated after Jackson learned about Colossal's efforts to "de-extinct" species like the woolly mammoth and the dire wolf. Jackson then connected the company with experts he had met through his moa bone collecting, which had amassed a collection of hundreds of bones.

The initial phase of the project involves identifying well-preserved bones to extract DNA. This DNA will be compared to the genomes of living bird species, such as the tinamou and emu, to understand the unique characteristics of the moa.

The process of working with birds presents different challenges compared to mammals. Bird embryos develop inside eggs, requiring a different approach to embryo transfer. Scientists acknowledge the numerous scientific hurdles that need to be overcome.

The project also raises questions about the practicalities of reintroducing a species into the wild. Experts express doubts about the feasibility of such a reintroduction, highlighting the potential dangers of the animal.

The direction of the project will be influenced by Māori scholars at the Ngāi Tahu Research Centre. The work has sparked renewed interest in examining traditions and mythology. Jackson has collaborated with experts to study moa remains, including visiting archaeological sites with ancient rock art depicting the moa.