Welcome to the Search for Lost Species, where we look for plants, animals and fungi that have been lost to science for at least 10 years—sometimes hundreds of years. All is not lost. We can protect and restore our planet.
Let’s find something WILD. For ALL wildkind.
The Most Wanted
The most wanted lost species list is a subset of the more than 2,200 lost species across 160 countries that Re:wild has compiled in collaboration with more than 100 experts from the IUCN Species Survival Commission’s specialist groups. Lost species are those that have been lost to science for at least 10 years—and often much longer.
Some lost species have been found
In 2017, Re:wild started a global quest to find its 25 most wanted lost species—and since then, Team Re:wild has found EIGHT. That’s right. More than 1/3 of a list of animals and plants scientists feared lost have been FOUND.
Support scientific expeditions to find lost species!
Your support helps us recruit teams to head out into the wild in search of Lost Species. Eight of our Top 25 Most Wanted Lost Species have been found, but the scientists and researchers often find so much more. Share about the Search for Lost Species on social and consider making a donation to support expeditions. Let’s find something wild – for all wildkind!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a species “lost”? What is considered proof of “rediscovery”? How can I join the largest search for lost species ever (according to the Guiness Book of World Records) Not to fear, our FAQ is here! This is a very important initiative and we want you to feel as informed and empowered as possible.