Elephant in the Room Dire Wolves: Still Extinct?

Elephant in the Room: Small Talk, Big Issues 

Elephant in the Room is a new after-hours discussion series that unpacks the big, thought-provoking (and sometimes controversial) topics from the museum world—and beyond. 

What to Expect: 

• Exclusive after-hours access to the museum
• Insightful talks led by leading voices and experts in science, culture, and conservation
• Candid conversations that challenge perspectives and spark curiosity
• Cocktail hour to unwind, connect, and chat with the speakers 

Join us for an evening of science, storytelling, and real talk–after dark!

May 13 |  Dire Wolves: Still Extinct?  

By now, we’ve all likely heard the claim that dire wolves have been cloned and brought back from extinction, but despite sensational headlines stirring up prehistoric hype, the scientific truth is that dire wolves remain extinct. What is the fascination with this ancient predator, and how do such claims impact the work being done by today’s scientists?

Join us for Dire Wolves: Still Extinct?, a panel discussion part of NHM’s new thought-provoking discussion series Elephant in the Room, which dives into bold–and sometimes controversial–topics from the museum world and beyond. This event will explore the mystery and known facts of dire wolves, clearing up misconceptions fueled by recent advances in biotechnology, de-extinction, and our understanding of the past.  

The evening will feature a conversation in the new NHM Commons Theater with Dr. Emily Lindsey, Associate Curator and Excavation Site Director at Rancho La Brea; Dr. Mairin Balisi, Augustyn Family Curator at the Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology; and Jazlyn Mooney, Gabilan Assistant Professor of Quantitative and Computational Biology at USC, followed by a cocktail reception. 

Program Schedule 

6:30 pm: Doors Open
7-8 pm: Discussion begins 
8-9 pm: Cocktail hour starts 
9:00 pm: Program Ends

Meet the Speakers: