Toxic predator is first-of-its-kind catch and four more creature encounters
The summaries below were drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All linked stories were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.
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 rare animal encounters from around the world:
10-foot-long predator — with toxic flesh — is first-of-its-kind catch off Mexico
Off the coast of Veracruz, Mexico, fishermen caught a bluntnose sixgill shark, marking the first confirmed catch of this species in Mexican waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. This nearly 10-foot-long shark, known for its “robust body” and toxic flesh, was reeled in during a fishing expedition. The shark’s presence confirms its distribution in the southwest region of the Gulf. | Published June 10 | Read More |
Rangers open trap in Australia — and find ‘unexpected’ creature inside. See it
In western Australia, wildlife rangers set traps to catch red-tailed phascogales but ended up capturing hopping mice instead, revealing unexpected behavior. These ground-dwelling rodents were found climbing trees to access bait, likely due to resource limitations during a severe drought. | Published June 12 | Read More |
Black-tongued predator caught by hunter in Iraq. It’s a first-of-its-kind record
In the mountains of eastern Iraq, a hunter captured a Persian horned viper, marking the first documented confirmation of this venomous species in Iraq. The snake, known for its “spade-shaped” head and black tongue, was previously only confirmed in neighboring Iran. This finding extends the geographic range of the Persian horned viper. | Published June 12 | Read More |
‘Shadow caught on camera’ ends creature’s 500-year-long absence from Portugal
Trail cameras in Portugal captured footage of a beaver, marking the species’ return after a 500-year absence. Conservationists have been working to rehabilitate beaver populations, and this sighting is a significant step in the aquatic rewilding of Portugal’s rivers. The beaver’s return is seen as a symbol of hope and environmental recovery. | Published June 13 | Read More |
Large creature caught on trail camera scavenging in Poland woods. See rare sight
In Poland’s Owl Mountains, a trail camera captured a Eurasian griffon vulture, a rare sighting for the area. This large scavenger, known for its impressive wingspan, was later spotted at a waste disposal facility, attracting crowds of curious watchers. The vulture’s appearance in Poland is considered a “sensation” by wildlife officials. | Published June 16 | Read More |
This story was originally published June 20, 2025 at 9:00 AM with the headline "Toxic predator is first-of-its-kind catch and four more creature encounters."