Blood-sucking creatures and ‘erratic’ flyers: See new species discoveries

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:

New species of ‘erratic’-flying creatures discovered in Angola. Take a look

In the forests of northwestern Angola, researchers have discovered a new species of butterfly named Hewitsonia rogerioi. These butterflies, known for their “erratic” flight and iridescent green wings, were found dancing across open spaces in the forest. The discovery honors Angolan nature enthusiast Rogério Ferreira, and the butterflies were captured and compared to known species. | Published April 3 | Read More |

‘Pygmy’ creature with ‘leaf’-like toes found in South Africa. It’s a new species

In the extreme desert climate of Northern Cape Province, South Africa, researchers have discovered a new species of gecko called Goggia sabula, or the gravel pygmy gecko. This small, boldly patterned gecko was found in rock outcrops and is notable for its “leaf”-shaped toes and pinkish cream hue. The discovery highlights the gecko’s ability to remain active in cold and windy conditions. | Published April 4 | Read More |

4-foot-long creature found at abandoned island village. It’s a new species

On Rossel Island, Papua New Guinea, a new species of snake called Dendrelaphis melanarkys, or the black net tree snake, has been discovered. This large snake, with its smooth scales and orange eyes, was found in a rainforest and village gardens. The discovery was made by Fred Kraus, who compared the snakes to museum archives to identify the new species. | Published April 9 | Read More |

‘Armored’ river creature — known to sting fishermen — discovered as new species

In the tea-colored rivers of northern Brazil, a new species of catfish named Hoplisoma noxium, or the noxium armored catfish, has been discovered. This small catfish, known for its “armored” appearance and “powerful toxin,” was found during night fishing surveys. The species is notable for its mosaic-like scales and ability to cause painful stings to fishermen. | Published April 8 | Read More |

Cave-dweller with three jaws found feeding on bat blood is new species in China

In a cave in Ganzhou City, Jiangxi Province, China, researchers have discovered a new species of leech called Sinospelaeobdella jiangxiensis, or the jiangxiensis land leech. This bloodsucking leech, with its three jaws and five pairs of eyes, was found feeding on bat blood in karstic caves. The discovery highlights the leech’s specialized diet and adaptation to cave environments. | Published April 8 | 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 April 11, 2025 at 11:36 AM with the headline "Blood-sucking creatures and ‘erratic’ flyers: See new species discoveries."