3D scanning and printing has enabled a group of individuals to bring back the extinct passenger pigeon/ Not literally, but at least a copy of its skeleton. Using 3D scanners, under the guidance of Dr. Elizabeth Moore, a group of individuals were able to eventually 3D print replicas of the pigeon's bones. In doing so they make sure that the preservation of an animal which has been extinct for almost exactly 100 years takes place. More details on this project may be found here: http://3dprint.com/13940/3d-printing-passenger-pigeon/

Below is an image of the passenger pigeon skull being 3d scanned: