002A-00 woolly mammoth
View More 
The future of discovery starts in the classroom.
That’s why we’ve partnered with science communicator and middle school teacher Zeke Darwin to bring cutting-edge conservation and de-extinction science into the classroom through a five-part educational video series designed for students, educators, and parents.
Across the series, students explore core scientific concepts like genetics, evolution, biodiversity, and the role technology plays in protecting endangered species—and even reviving those we’ve lost.
To make these topics easy to bring into the classroom, every episode is paired with a downloadable lesson plan, complete with activities, discussion prompts, and resources designed to support meaningful learning.
Lesson 01: Introducing De-Extinction
In the first episode, Zeke kicks off the series by exploring the science and purpose behind de-extinction. From the frozen tundra of the mammoth steppe to modern breakthroughs in CRISPR and conservation genetics, students will learn how Colossal is working to bring back lost species like the woolly mammoth, thylacine, dodo, and moa—and why these efforts matter for the future of life on Earth.
Lesson 02: Evolution and Traits
What do star-nosed moles, whales and malaria-resistant chimpanzees have in common? In this episode Zeke dives into divergent and convergent evolution, and how traits shape the survival and success of species over time. Students will learn how evolution drives adaption, and how understanding traits can guide smarter conservation strategies in a rapidly changing world.
Lesson 03: Keystone Species
What happens when you remove a species that holds an entire ecosystem together? Zeke explores the concept of keystone species through two powerful species: the reintroduction of wolves in Yellowstone and the extinction of mammoths from the Ice Age. Students will see how a single species can reshape entire landscapes, and how science is working to restore balance.
Lesson 04: Saving Species with Science
From the genetic rescue of the northern white rhino to developing vaccines for elephants, this episode highlights five real-world projects where science is giving endangered species a second chance. Zeke shows how DNA biobanks, AI-powered bioacoustics, and de-extinction technologies are transforming what’s possible in conservation—and empowering people and communities on the ground to lead the way.
Lesson 05: Habitat Fragmentation
As our planet warms and habitats shrink, wildlife is being pushed into isolated pockets with no way to adapt or migrate. In this episode, Zeke explores habitat fragmentation—one of the most urgent drivers of extinction—and how modern tools like wildlife corridors, genetic rescue, and biotechnology are helping reconnect the wild. A hopeful look at how targeted strategies today can protect biodiversity tomorrow.
