In Search Of Ghosts

An expedition to answer one of the last remaining conservation science mysteries and the final opportunity left on earth to rediscover a large mammal.

The search for the lost Wondiwoi Tree-Kangaroo.

An expedition into one of the last great mysteries of science.

The Ghost of the Wondiwois

For nearly a century, the Wondiwoi Tree-Kangaroo has been a ghost of the rainforest of Western Papua. Known only from a single specimen in 1928, it vanished from science for 90 years. Then, in 2018 – a blurry photo. A glimpse. A chance.

Among conservationists, the Wondiwoi Tree-Kangaroo has become almost mythical. A creature of rumor and science. Perhaps extinct. Does it still exist? Or are we chasing a ghost?

The Expedition Team

New Guinea’s Wild Heart — West Papua

New Guinea covers less than 0.5% of Earth’s land surface—yet it harbors up to 10% of all species on the planet. Two-thirds of its plants and most of its mammals exist nowhere else.

This expedition is not just about one species – it’s about what we lose if we stop searching.

This expedition would not have been possible without the generous support of our partners and sponsors.

We are deeply grateful to OAK Foundation, Oxford University Exploration Club and the Scientific Exploration Society, whose backing has made this ambitious journey a reality.

Our thanks also go to the people of Wasior, who have supported us in navigating their traditional lands to reach the Wondiwoi mountains.

Finally, we would like to recognize our trusted kit sponsor Salomon for equipping us with the tools to face the challenges of the Wondiwoi Mountains.

Wardens of The Wondiwois

The local community of Wasior not only served as porters but are also descendants of the traditional landowners (Ulayat) in the areas we traversed to reach the Wondiwoi Mountains.

Become part of the journey.

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