S A V O I A

Increased scientific surveys have resulted in the discovery of many fascinating new species. Between the rivers of the Philippines, the rain forests of Papua New Guinea, and the Foja Mountains of Indonesia there have been 17 new species added to the books! This is encouragement for all of us to protect our precious ecosystems and let all the life forms they contain thrive.  The purple “Insulamon Palawanese” crab is one of 4 new species in the Insulamon genus discovered on the island of Palawan in the Philippines. This vibrant specimen is widespread throughout the muddy streams and creeks of Palawan, but unlike most other crabs it lives ONLY in freshwater. This “bumblebee” gecko, or Nactus Kunan in the local Nali language, was discovered in Papua New Guinea.  His banded pattern likely helps him blend in to the forest floor.  Scientists expect to find many more new gecko species with further exploration on Manus island. This unnamed Imperial Pigeon is 1 of 12 new species discovered in “The Lost World” or Foja Mountains of Indonesia.  Many of these animals are strictly found in these largely inaccessible and isolated mountains.  Conservation International’s Rapid Assessment Program had to use helicopters to access this lost world to assess the biological value. Check out some of the Foja Mountain specimens below! The Lost World Tree Mouse moves through the Foja mountains on a network of vines and tree branches.

The “Pinocchio” Frog inhabits the rain forest tree tops.

The world’s smallest documented wallaby is in the kangaroo family and the size of rabbit!  Poachers have diminished related tree kangaroo species to a scarcity throughout Indonesia “Bent-toed Gecko” inhabit the trees and rain forest floor of The Lost World.  These luscious life-filled mountains are unique because there is relatively no human impact.  Conservation International hopes these discoveries of new species will boost protection of this pristine National Wildlife Refuge.