The remains of a mammoth found in Siberia: the best preserved cub ever!

The permafrost of Siberia, silent guardian of ancient secrets, has revealed an extraordinary new chapter in prehistoric history. The scientists ofYakutsk Northeastern Federal University (NEFU) have discovered the perfectly preserved remains of a baby mammoth dating back about 50,000 years in the Batagaika crater, in the Siberian region of Yakutia. The creature, affectionately renamed Yanawas found in conditions that left researchers speechless: ears, trunk, head and even the mouth remained intact, as if time had stopped.

Known as the “gate to hell” due to its depth (over a kilometer) and continuous erosion, the Batagaika Crater it is a true natural encyclopedia on the past of our planet. This immense permafrost wound, due to global warming and the progressive melting of ice, continues to yield discoveries that shed light on the climate and fauna of the Pleistocene. It is precisely in this remote place that Yana, a small mammoth measuring 1.20 meters tall and weighing over 100 kilos, was unearthed.

Scientists estimate that the cub was just one year old at the time of its death. Despite this, its state of conservation is impressive, making it one of the most complete finds to date.

Evolutionary and climatic discoveries: what Yana teaches us

The discovery of Yana is not only a scientific treasure, but a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to analyze the link between the past and present of our planet. According to the Mamut Lazarev Museum Laboratorybased in Yakutsk, genetic analyzes of this calf could provide crucial information on the evolution of mammoths and their genetic link with modern elephants. Furthermore, through the observation of its physical conditions, scholars will be able to deepen their understanding of the survival strategies adopted by mammoths during the harsh ice ages.

Another fundamental aspect is the study of the permafrost itself, which continues to melt due to climate change. The eternal ice that has preserved remains like that of Yana for millennia is slowly giving way, releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere and contributing to global warming.

As highlighted byYakutsk Northeastern Federal Universitythis discovery is not only a journey into prehistory, but also a warning for our time. The conservation of permafrost and the monitoring of its dynamics are fundamental to understanding not only the past, but also the impact of human actions on the planet.

What does this story teach us? That every discovery is a precious opportunity to reflect on how we can protect what our planet has given us, yesterday and today.