‘Cryptic’ creatures, animal hiding as poop as three more 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 being discovered across the planet. Some are found lurking in remote corners of the world, while others have been hiding right under our noses.

Take a look at some recent new species discoveries:

‘Cryptic’ creature — ‘confident’ in its disguise — discovered as new species

In the lush environment of Vu Quang National Park in Vietnam, researchers have discovered a new species called Gelastyrella vuquangensis, or the Vu Quang planthopper. This insect is known for its cryptic coloration that allows it to blend seamlessly with moss and lichen-covered wood. | Published Oct. 27 | Read More |

Creatures that look and smell like bird poop are new species from Southeast Asia

In Southeast Asia, scientists have identified two new species of crab spiders in the Phrynarachne genus, known for their uncanny resemblance to bird droppings. Phrynarachne gorochovi was found in the Philippines, while Phrynarachne storozhenkoi was discovered on the island of Borneo in Malaysia. These spiders use their unique appearance and odor to attract prey. | Published Oct. 28 | Read More |

‘Slender’ creature — ‘quick’ to change color — discovered as new species in India

In the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve of southern India, a new species of gecko, Hemiphyllodactylus venkatadri, or the Venkatadri slender gecko, was discovered. Known for its ability to change color quickly, this small gecko was found hiding under tree bark in the Venkatadri Hills. | Published Oct. 28 | Read More |

Carnivorous creature with ‘hook’-like teeth discovered as new species in Vietnam

In the mountains of northern Vietnam, researchers have identified a new species of caecilian, Ichthyophis griseivermis, or the Grey Worm caecilian. This secretive, worm-like amphibian is noted for its hook-shaped teeth and was found near mountain streams in Nghe An and Thanh Hoa Provinces. | Published Oct. 29 | Read More |

‘Long’-fingered creature with red eyes found lurking in Peru. It’s a new species

In the Andes Mountains of central Peru, a new species of frog, Phrynopus manuelriosi, or Manuel Ríos’ Andes frog, was discovered in Yanachaga-Chemillén National Park. This frog, with its long fingers and large red eyes, was found perched on tree branches in an elfin forest. | Published Oct. 30 | Read More |