Scientists discover a rare bird not seen in 140 years — and how they reacted was truly unforgettable

Several species of animals and birds have gone extinct over the past several decades, and that's always a heartbreaking discovery to make. The biggest threat to these endangered species is the invasion of their natural habitats by human beings. However, in a remarkable turn of events, scientists in Papua New Guinea captured the first-ever footage in 2022 of a rare and long-lost bird called the black-naped pheasant-pigeon. This rare species, thought to be gone for 140 years, was finally photographed on the island for the first time since 1882.

The black-naped pheasant pigeon is a huge bird that is now very rare and it originated in the rainforests of New Guinea. As reported by Unilad, one of the main reasons for their endangered condition is the disastrous effects of deforestation, which is a major threat to wildlife. The bird was rediscovered on the largest of the D’Entrecasteaux Islands in Papua New Guinea, an area dominated by lush rainforests and three towering volcanoes. It was spotted by the expedition leaders John Mittermeier and Jason Gregg after a 140-year gap.

The researchers placed their cameras in the region in the hopes of obtaining proof of the rare bird's existence after Island residents reported seeing it and one even claimed to have heard its unique sound. Jordan Boersma, a researcher, said, “When we collected the camera traps, I figured there was less than a one percent chance of getting a photo of the black-naped pheasant-pigeon." Boersma added, “As I was scrolling through the photos, I was stunned by this photo of this bird walking right past our camera." Mittermeier also claimed, "It is the kind of moment you dream about your entire life as a conservationist and birdwatcher."

As reported by the BBC, scientists are worried that the island's black-naped pheasant-pigeon population is small and declining. Meanwhile, following their groundbreaking discovery, the crew posted a touching video of their reaction when they managed to get a clip of the bird. In the viral footage, the researchers are seen holding hands, stomping their feet, and gleefully declaring it as the happiest moment ever. Local bird expert Doka Nason, equally excited, admitted to jumping around and shouting in pure excitement. The team hopes that this footage—and the bird’s rediscovery—will raise awareness and help in the protection of the remaining species, as reported by Metro.

Mittermeier also said, "After a month of searching, seeing those first photos of the pheasant-pigeon felt like finding a unicorn." Talking about the bird’s potential extinction, Boersma said, “The reason I care, why I think we should all care, is that this bird has meant something and continues to mean something to the local people. It’s part of their legends and culture—if we lose this species, then its cultural importance will be lost along with the role it plays in this fantastic ecosystem." During a two-week survey in 2019, the black-naped pheasant-pigeon was not found. Nevertheless, the results of that study gave the team of 2022 important hints that helped them uncover important spots along their journey, which finally resulted in the successful rediscovery of the endangered bird.