By Daniel White
Scientists captured an endangered giant salamander believed to be some 200 years old in a cave in a China.
The amphibian is 4.5 feet long and weighs 114 pounds, according to the Washington Post, citing reports from the People’s Daily online. That’s actually not very large for the species Andrias davidianus, the paper reports, as the huge animals can grow to be about six feet long.
Because the species is critically endangered, scientists removed the ancient beast from its cave and moved it to a protective research facility. The Post reports that the salamanders are a delicacy in China—the species is a target for poachers—and their population has declined about 80% over the last 50 years.
More Must-Reads From TIME
- Jane Fonda Champions Climate Action for Every Generation
- Biden’s Campaign Is In Trouble. Will the Turnaround Plan Work?
- Why We're Spending So Much Money Now
- The Financial Influencers Women Actually Want to Listen To
- Breaker Sunny Choi Is Heading to Paris
- Why TV Can’t Stop Making Silly Shows About Lady Journalists
- The Case for Wearing Shoes in the House
- Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time
Contact us at letters@time.com