From the Inbox: New Discovery - World's smallest wallaby

Dear Friend, A team of scientists on a Conservation International led Rapid Assessment Program (RAP) expedition have discovered an array of species new to science in Indonesia’s Foja Mountains on the island of New Guinea. This wilderness once dubbed “The Lost World” by the west is teeming with a stunning new diversity of spectacular species. Your gift today will support our many programs discovering and protecting species and their habitats. Dr. Ucok holds this 1.4 kg wolly rat - a species new to science. Foja Mts, western New Guinea, Indonesia. Image © CI/photo by Bruce Beehler The collaborative team of international and Indonesian scientists endured torrential rainstorms and life-threatening flash floods as they tracked species from the low foothills to the top of the Range, reporting notable discoveries including: a bizarre spike-nosed tree frog; an oversized but notably tame new woolly rat; a gargoyle-like bent-toed gecko with yellow eyes; a remarkable imperial pigeon; and, a tiny forest wallaby, which represents the smallest member of the kangaroo family documented in the world.> The discovery of these absolutely incredible forms of life is much needed positive news. Make a gift to support our work to protect species like these and their habitats around the world. CI is working with the government of Indonesia hoping that the documentation of such unique species will encourage them to bolster long-term protection of the area. Further, with 20 years of RAP surveys to its credit, CI is now embarking on an ambitious project – to double or even triple the number of species discoveries over the next few years. Many of the still undiscovered species may be beneficial to people’s health, food, and fresh-water security, and therefore important for conservation. Thank you for your support. Sincerely, Beth Wallace VP, Marketing Communications + Membership P.S. 2010 is the International Year of Biodiversity. In October, the international community will gather in Japan to discuss how to reduce the rate of species and plant loss. Your gift today will support CI’s efforts to hold nations accountable for slowed progress and fight for a stronger future commitment.

Header photo © CI/photo by Haroldo Castro