Spraying venom and waiting in ambush are techniques for these new species. See them
.jpg "Two Oman reptiles are among some of the most recently discovered species.")
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 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 discoveries:
3-foot-long predator found waiting in ambush on rooftop of Oman. It’s a new species
In Oman, a new species of snake, the Hajar cliff racer, was discovered on a rooftop, showcasing its unique ability to ambush prey. Known as Platyceps hajarensis, this snake is identified by its distinct coloring and pattern, living in rocky desert areas and even entering buildings in search of food. | Published Dec. 16 | Read More |
‘Large’ forest creature — able to spray venom — discovered as new species in Colombia
In Colombia, a new species of scorpion, Tityus achilles or the Achilles’ scorpion, was found to have the unusual ability to spray venom, a defense mechanism not typical for scorpions. This discovery was made by Léo Laborieux during a research expedition in La Vega, where he observed the scorpion’s unique behavior and distinct physical characteristics. | Published Dec. 17 | Read More |
3-foot-long predator found at air force base in Oman turns out to be new species
Another new species of snake, the Masirah cliff racer, was identified on Masirah Island, Oman, at an air force base. Known as Platyceps masirae, this snake is characterized by its patterned body and yellow belly, blending seamlessly into its surroundings. | Published Dec. 18 | Read More |
Divers find ‘large’-eyed lake creature with ‘prominent’ teeth. It’s a new species
In Lake Malawi, divers discovered two new species of cichlid fish, Mylochromis rotundus and Mylochromis durophagus, distinguished by their large eyes and unique body shapes. These fish were found in shallow, rocky habitats along the lake’s western coast, adding to the lake’s rich biodiversity. | Published Dec. 13 | Read More |
McClatchy News continues to follow the discovery of the most unusual and intriguing new species. Check back for the latest studies.
This story was originally published December 20, 2024 at 11:13 AM with the headline "Spraying venom and waiting in ambush are techniques for these new species. See them."