Peter Jackson and Colossal’s Ben Lamm Break Down Impact of Giant Moa De-Extinction, Dinosaur Comparisons, and Update on Dire Wolves

by

At Colossal Biosciences, the team is actively engaged in numerous significant projects, such as the recently disclosed revival of the Dire Wolves, but they’re only just scratching the surface, and their latest undertaking might prove to be one of their most influential ventures to date. Today, Colossal unveiled a new project in collaboration with the Ngāi Tahu Research Centre that aims to significantly benefit the Ngāi Tahu community while also attempting to revive the extinct South Island Giant Moa. This extraordinary bird has deep cultural ties to the Māori tribe and New Zealand, and now, along with all nine species of Moa, it could reemerge onto the global scene. We had the opportunity to interview Colossal’s CEO and co-founder Ben Lamm, Ngāi Tahu archaeologist Kyle Davis, and Colossal investor and renowned director Peter Jackson about this unique partnership, its implications, and how the Moa compares to another popular species from the past, Dinosaurs. Not forgetting to ask for updates on everyone’s favorite extinct creatures – the Dire Wolves (although they are no longer as small as they once were). You can catch a sneak peek into the de-extinction of the Moa in the video below.

A New Kind of Partnership (And Jurassic World: Rebirth)

In this partnership, Colossal is not just collaborating with the Ngāi Tahu Research Centre, but the Centre will be steering all aspects of the project. This collaboration offers Colossal an opportunity to blend Māori wisdom with the Center’s rich history of species conservation and research. Moreover, Colossal Biosciences is planning a substantial financial commitment in New Zealand for the development of biotechnology and safeguarding New Zealand’s exclusive biodiversity, encompassing plants and animals that can’t be found anywhere else. Lamm discussed the project’s origins, and Jackson played a significant role during its initiation.

For approximately two years, I’ve been acquainted with Peter. It was through him that I met Michael Dougherty, a dear friend whom we hold in high regard. Interestingly enough, Michael has a long-standing friendship with both Peter and Fran. When Peter decided to invest in the business, there was a condition: all the funds must be allocated for the Moa project. As an enthusiast of de-extinction, I’m captivated by the Moa, even though I hail from outside New Zealand. The Moa is the largest bird ever known, flightless, and surprisingly, it lacks wings entirely. This makes it quite unique, as its feathers resemble hair rather than traditional avian plumage. With the recent launch of Jurassic World: Rebirth, dinosaurs are on everyone’s mind. I believe the Moa is the closest living creature that humans can interact with that bears some resemblance to dinosaurs.



Lamm stated that the chance for our team to delve into a project initiated in October, involving sampling and extended stays in New Zealand, was largely facilitated by Peter setting up numerous introductions, such as those with the Ngāi Tahu Research Center, Canterbury Museum’s Kyle and Paul, and others. As this project is unique compared to many we undertake, it has led us to immerse ourselves deeply with the Ngāi Tahu and local museums. Unlike other projects where collaboration is more of a loose arrangement, everyone carrying on with their regular tasks, this one has been exceptionally immersive for us. Through this experience, we’ve gained insights into the history, cultural significance, and spiritual aspects that have taken our involvement to unprecedented depths.

Lamm explained that the collaboration with Ngāi Tahu Research Centre isn’t just a partnership, but they are the driving force behind the project. They are the guardians of these revered species, and thus, we view them as the board of directors, while we work under their guidance and help them fulfill their objectives. Interestingly, instead of being restrictive, this approach has allowed us to delve much deeper. My recent trip to New Zealand resulted in a large Māori painting that I’m rearranging my entire living room for, telling my wife it will replace everything else because we plan to display it prominently. This project has become incredibly significant to us spiritually.

The Return of the South Island Giant Moa (And Why It Matters)


Currently, Colossal is focusing on reviving extinct animals such as the Wooly Mammoth, Thesyaline, and Dodo, in addition to their previous endeavors aimed at reintroducing Dire Wolves and boosting the number of Red Wolves. Now they are shifting their focus towards the Giant Moa, a significant creature in Ngāi Tahu history. However, it’s not only the Giant Moa that is being revived; all nine species of Moa are also being brought back to life.

Researchers aim to unravel the genetic code of the nine different types of Moa. By sequencing the genomes of each species, they hope to shed light on the historical timeline of these extinct birds. Currently, researchers are limited to studying the bones of the Moa, as it’s believed that these creatures lived for tens of thousands, possibly even millions of years. The genome, similar to the DNA sent to ancestry sites, holds a species’ history. Therefore, analyzing all nine Moa genomes would provide a significant advantage to New Zealand archaeologists and scientists.

Jackson emphasized that our goal is to revive the South Island Giant Moa, given its significance for the Ngāi Tahu tribe, who are the largest in the South Island. He added that when the Māori first arrived around 1290-1300 AD, they encountered an abundant protein source in the Moa, which played a crucial role in their transformation from Polynesians to Māoris. The high protein content altered them physically, as they primarily consumed fish before this. It’s unclear what other proteins were available in Polynesia at that time, but the Moa was an exceptional source for the Māori. Furthermore, the feathers and fur were used for clothing, while the bones provided tools. In essence, the Moa was instrumental in the establishment of the Māori people.

When asked about what it would mean if the Moa were no longer just a subject of research but something we could encounter personally again, Davis replied, “It would be a groundbreaking event and we’re eagerly anticipating quite a shock, a moment that sparks global interest in various areas such as science, technology, careers, and even our connection with nature. There are numerous aspects to consider.” Peter?

The Pack is Complete

Without leaving it behind, let’s catch up on the Dire Wolves that created a sensation earlier in the year – namely Remus, Romulus, and Khaleesi. Ever since their introduction to the public, they have been thriving, and currently, they are united as one pack.

Lamm stated, “Remus and Romulus have now exceeded 100 pounds each, and we’ve recently added Khaleesi to their group. We’re currently producing a video documenting the whole process, so hopefully, by late this month or early August, we can all enjoy watching it. The integration went smoothly, and they’re all doing well together now.

For additional details about the Moa’s return and this unique endeavor, please visit Colossal’s main site. To learn more about the Ngāi Tahu Research Centre, you’re in the right place!

https://comicbook.com/movies/news/colossals-ben-lamm-and-joe-manganiello-talk-birth-of-the-woolly-mouse-world-impact-and-jurassic-park-comparisons/embed/#

Read More

2025-07-08 21:40