Woolly mouse facts for kids

The woolly mouse refers to a variety of genetically modified laboratory mice developed in 2025 by Colossal Biosciences as part of efforts toward the de-extinction of the woolly mammoth. The mice feature mammoth-inspired traits which include woolly coats and other genetic modifications aimed at cold tolerance.

Background

Colossal Biosciences, an American biotechnology company, initiated the woolly mouse project as part of their broader woolly mammoth de-extinction program. The company made efforts to restore woolly mammoths through genetic engineering of Asian elephants by introducing mammoth-like traits that would allow the resulting species to survive in cold environments.

The company proposed that herds of genetically modified elephants with mammoth-like traits could help mitigate climate change through their impact on Arctic ecosystems. According to the company's hypothesis, these creatures would graze in ways that promote grassland development in tundra regions and reduce permafrost thaw, thus decrease the release of carbon dioxide from permafrost melt.

The research was announced in March 2025, with the company stating their intention to produce the first genetically modified elephant calf with mammoth characteristics by the end of 2028.

See also

• Alba (rabbit)
• Colossal Biosciences
• De-extinction
• Glofish
• Revival of the woolly mammoth