In a breathtaking twist, the Quercus tardifolia, believed to be extinct, has resurfaced in Texas’ Big Bend National Park. America’s national parks aren’t mere tourist attractions; they’re biodiversity strongholds, preserving ecological wonders. Big Bend’s recent revelation underscores its significance, unveiling an oak species once declared extinct. The late-leaf oak, Quercus tardifolia, is a living testament to a bygone era when Texas was cooler and wetter. Remarkably, this oak retains its leaves throughout winter, only to sprout new ones late into spring. Its survival hinges on the shaded, moist environments of the Chisos Mountains’ north-facing canyons. Michael Eason, a dedicated scientist, … Continue reading Nature’s Big Comeback: Extinct Oak Tree Found Alive in Texas!