New species found with babies crawling on its back and four other discoveries
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Unique creatures, odd animals and new species are being discovered across the planet. Some are found lurking in remote corners of the world, while others have been hiding right under our noses.
Learn more about some recent new species discoveries:
‘Large’ venomous creature — with babies on back — is new species in Thailand
In the forests of Doi Phu Kha National Park in Thailand, a new species of scorpion called Scorpiops doiphukha was discovered. This “large” scorpion, found hiding in rock crevices, is notable for carrying its young on its back. The species thrives in the dense, humid forests of northern Thailand. | Published June 12 | Read More |
Deep-sea creature — with feather-like body — is new ocean species. Take a look
Researchers exploring a cold seep in the South China Sea discovered a new species of crinoid named Endoxocrinus kexuei. This feather-like creature, found attached to rotted wood 2,700 feet below the surface, belongs to a family of sea lilies known for their suspension-feeding habits. The species was named after the ocean vessel “Kexue” for its “significant contribution” to biological research. | Published June 13 | Read More |
‘Long’-tailed creature found hiding in fallen log at night. It’s a new species
In the forests of Thailand and Malaysia, researchers discovered a new species of gecko called Cyrtodactylus peninsularis, or the peninsula bent-toed gecko. These nocturnal lizards, with “long” tails and “large” eyes, were found climbing tree trunks and branches. The species is named for its presence on the Thai-Malay Peninsula. | Published June 13 | Read More |
Creature with ‘horned’ eyelids discovered on China mountain. It’s a new species
On a mountain peak in Yezhong Nature Reserve, China, researchers found a new species of frog named Boulenophrys yezhongensis, or the Yezhong horned toad. This frog, with “horned” eyelids and a “shield-like” snout, is adapted to high elevations and cold temperatures. The species is at risk due to its limited distribution and potential climate change impacts. | Published June 16 | Read More |
River creature — with more than 100 teeth — found as new species in Zimbabwe
In the highland rivers of Zimbabwe, researchers discovered two new species of suckermouth catfish, including Chiloglanis asperocutis, known as the “rough skin” suckermouth catfish. This species, found in the Honde River, is notable for its ridged body and high number of teeth, ranging from 68 to 128, which is more than other related species in southern Africa. The second species, Chiloglanis compactus, or the dwarf suckermouth catfish, is the smallest of its kind, measuring just 1.7 inches long, and was found in the Pungwe and Buzi river systems. | Published June 18 | Read More |
McClatchy News continues to follow the discovery and sightings of unusual and intriguing species. Check back for the latest stories.
This story was originally published June 20, 2025 at 9:00 AM with the headline "New species found with babies crawling on its back and four other discoveries."