A gecko species, the Blyde Rondavel flat gecko, unseen for over 30 years, has been rediscovered in South Africa. Researchers from the Endangered Wildlife Trust found specimens in Mpumalanga Province. The species was initially identified in 1991 in the same canyon.
The rediscovery resolves a long-standing mystery. It was unclear if the gecko was extinct or a juvenile of another species. The gecko was considered a "lost" species, listed as data deficient by the IUCN.
Researchers Darren Pietersen and John Davies returned to the site. They were determined to find the gecko again. The team camped for three days on a rocky outcrop.
The researchers spotted 20 to 30 geckos. They captured and photographed seven specimens. The geckos are around 8 to 9 centimeters long when fully grown.
The collected data, including tissue samples, will confirm its distinct species status. This is the fifth animal rediscovered by the Endangered Wildlife Trust in recent years. These rediscoveries highlight the vastness of undiscovered biodiversity.