From Mice to Mammoths: Scientists Create ‘Woolly Mice’ in De-Extinction Quest

Scientists at Colossal Biosciences in Dallas, Texas, have just introduced the world to their latest genetic experiment: “woolly mice.”

These adorable, long-haired rodents aren’t just a quirky new breed — they’re the first step in an ambitious plan to bring back the woolly mammoth, which has been extinct for around 4,000 years.

The mice, officially named the “Colossal Woolly Mouse,” have long, shaggy fur reminiscent of the Ice Age mammal.

Videos shared by ABC News show the mice bouncing around and playing, their fluffy coats making them look like tiny, prehistoric pets.

From Mice to Mammoths? Yes, Really!

You might be wondering, “Why on earth are scientists making fluffy mice?” It turns out, these woolly mice are a test run for genetic techniques that could eventually be used to recreate the woolly mammoth.

The team at Colossal Biosciences hopes to use gene-editing technology to combine mammoth DNA with that of modern elephants, aiming to bring the legendary creature back to life.

The big idea? Reviving woolly mammoths could help restore Arctic ecosystems and combat climate change by promoting grassland habitats that reflect sunlight and keep permafrost intact.

Internet Reactions: Adorable or “Are We Sure About This?”

Not surprisingly, the internet had a lot to say. Some people are all in, with comments like, “That is so cool OMG!” and “I need a woolly mouse ASAP!” Others were a bit more skeptical.

“Just because we can doesn’t mean we should,” one person wrote, echoing a Jurassic Park vibe. Another joked, “I’ll take four of the fluffy mice—you can hold off on the mammoth.”

There were even a few wishful thinkers asking when we might see saber-toothed mice, proving that when it comes to the internet, nothing is off the table.

@abcnews Meet the Colossal Woolly Mouse. These mice were bred by Colossal Biosciences, a biotech company that said the breeding effort is a step toward bringing back the woolly mammoth. Woolly mammoths roamed the frozen tundras of Europe, Asia and North America until they went extinct around 4,000 years ago. #mouse #animals #woollymammoth #science #news #abcnews ♬ original sound – ABC News

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