Kiwikiu translocation holds promise for one of the world's rarest birds

摘要

In a bold action aimed at saving the endangered Kiwikiu (Maui Parrotbill or Pseudonestor xanthophrys), in October four conservation partners will begin translocating both, captive-bred and wild birds, to a restored forest with the goal of creating a second, "insurance" population for this species. The Kiwikiu has declined by over 50 percent in recent years, and fewer than 312 birds remain in the wild. This unique and beautiful songbird, with its heavy, hooked bill, is only found in the high-altitude native forests on East Maui. As its one remaining wild population has declined, the species' range has shrunk to less than 7,400 acres.