Pyrenean ibex: The animal that went extinct twice

The Pyrenean ibex, a subspecies of wild goat native to the Iberian Peninsula, holds the unique and tragic distinction of being the first animal to go extinct twice. The last known individual, a female named Celia, died in Spain's Pyrenees Mountains in January 2000, crushed by a tree, officially marking the species' end.

Nine months prior, scientists had captured Celia to collect tissue samples for preservation, hoping to use cloning technology to revive the species. In July 2003, researchers successfully cloned an ibex using these cells. The female clone was born with no apparent physical abnormalities and showed vital signs, but tragically died within minutes due to congenital lung defects, a common issue in cloned mammals. This event made the Pyrenean ibex the world's first cloned extinct animal and, consequently, the first animal to become extinct twice.

Historically, Iberian ibex were widespread across the Iberian Peninsula, depicted in prehistoric cave art alongside other megafauna. However, habitat destruction, disease, and trophy hunting led to a drastic decline in their populations. Of the four subspecies, the Portuguese ibex went extinct in 1892, and the Pyrenean ibex followed in 2000. The Pyrenean subspecies, known for its larger size and impressive horns, was particularly sought after by hunters.

By the early 20th century, the Pyrenean ibex's range had shrunk to the Ordesa Valley. Despite hunting bans in 1913 and the establishment of Ordesa National Park in 1918, the population dwindled. By 1990, only 6 to 14 individuals remained, and no males were seen after 1994. Today, efforts are focused on reintroducing other Iberian ibex subspecies to the Pyrenees, with over 250 individuals released between 2014 and 2021. While these reintroduced populations are adapting well, concerns about low genetic diversity and the need for ongoing management persist. The Pyrenean ibex's story highlights the complex debate between advanced biotechnologies like cloning and traditional conservation methods such as habitat protection and reintroduction.