Cloned black-footed ferret gives birth for the first time, boosting endangered species' genetic diversity

A cloned black-footed ferret named Antonia has given birth to two healthy kits, marking the first successful birth of a cloned ferret in history. This event took place at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute in Virginia. Antonia's birth is significant for conservation efforts, as it introduces new genetic diversity to the endangered black-footed ferret population. The current population is descended from just seven individuals, leading to concerns about inbreeding. The cloning process used genetic material from a ferret named Willa, preserved since 1988. Antonia's kits, named Sibert and Red Cloud, are expected to contribute to the long-term health of the species.