One of the closest living relatives of the dodo has been spotted multiple times in samoa – raising hopes that this critically endangered creature can be saved from the brink of extinction.
The Samoa Conservation Society’s (SCS) latest field survey,which took place from Oct. 17-Nov. 13, reported five sightings of the manumea (Didunculus strigirostris). Previous surveys only yielded a single sighting, if any.The last photograph of the cryptic species in the wild was taken in 2013.
In the early 1990s, there were around 7,000 of these dodo-like birds, which are only found in Samoa. But habitat destruction, hunting and invasive species decimated the population to an estimated 50 to 150 as of 2024.Before setting out, team members were concerned they wouldn’t find the bird alive, possibly signalling its impending extinction.
“That was our worry,” said Moeumu Uili, a project coordinator focusing on manumea with SCS. “What happens if we can’t find the bird? Does that mean the manumea is no more?”
Despite confirming the manumea’s existence, the team found it tough to photograph due to their distance from the bird, its quick movement and rainy conditions. “All of a sudden, it appears out of nowhere,” Uili told Live Science. “When we see it through the binoculars, we can see the bird.”
But by the time researchers lower their binoculars to get a camera, the bird is gone, she said.
Last of its kind
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The manumea is the only living species of its Didunculus genus, which will end if the bird goes extinct. The chicken-size manumea’s scientific name,Didunculus strigirostris,means “little dodo.” Both the dodo and manumea are classified as island ground pigeons.
Saving Samoa’s Manumea: Genetic Diversity and Conservation Efforts for the National Bird
The majestic manumea ( Megapodius plumula), Samoa’s national bird, faces a precarious future. With a dwindling population, conservationists are racing against time to secure the species’ survival.Recent efforts emphasize the importance of maintaining genetic diversity alongside conventional conservation methods like predator control and habitat restoration. Experts stress that a multi-faceted approach is crucial to prevent the extinction of this culturally significant bird.
The Plight of the Manumea
The manumea, a large, ground-dwelling bird belonging to the megapode family, is endemic to samoa. Historically, the manumea thrived in the Samoan rainforest, playing a vital role in seed dispersal and ecosystem health. Though, habitat loss due to deforestation, coupled with predation by introduced species like cats, dogs, and rats, has dramatically reduced its numbers. The species is currently listed as ‘Endangered’ on the IUCN Red List IUCN Red List.
The Importance of Genetic Diversity: The 500-Rule
A key aspect of triumphant conservation is ensuring sufficient genetic diversity within the remaining population. Without it, the manumea may lack the adaptability needed to survive changing environmental conditions and resist diseases.
Nic Rawlence, Associate Professor and Director of the Otago Palaeogenetics Laboratory at the University of Otago in New Zealand, highlights the importance of this principle. He explained that conservation efforts must focus on bringing back enough individuals to maintain a healthy gene pool, a concept known as the “500-rule.” This rule suggests a minimum effective population size of 500 individuals is needed to avoid inbreeding depression and maintain long-term evolutionary potential.
“Rawlence also said you must bring back enough species to ensure genetic diversity so they can adapt and survive, which is known as the 500-rule in conservation,” as reported by Live Science.
A Multi-Pronged Conservation Strategy
While increasing population numbers is vital, conservationists recognize that simply releasing birds isn’t enough. A holistic strategy is required, encompassing:
* Predator Control: Aggressive management of invasive predators is paramount. This includes trapping, baiting, and public awareness campaigns to encourage responsible pet ownership.
* Habitat Restoration: Reforestation efforts are underway to restore degraded habitats and provide the manumea with suitable nesting and foraging grounds.
* Translocation: Carefully planned translocation of birds to suitable, predator-controlled areas can establish new populations and reduce the risk of extinction.
* Community Engagement: Local communities play a crucial role in manumea conservation. Education programs and collaborative initiatives foster a sense of ownership and encourage participation in conservation efforts.
Rawlence echoed these sentiments,stating,”I think it’s still going to come down to the grunt work of predator control,habitat restoration,translocation.”
Collaborative Conservation Efforts
The conservation of the manumea is a collaborative effort involving multiple organizations. Key partners include:
* Samoa Conservation Society (SCS): A leading local association dedicated to protecting Samoa’s biodiversity. Samoa Conservation Society
* Samoa Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE): The government agency responsible for environmental management and conservation. MNRE Samoa
* BirdLife International: A global partnership of conservation organizations working to protect birds and their habitats. BirdLife International
* Colossal foundation: Supporting conservation and research initiatives.Colossal Foundation
* Toledo Zoo: providing expertise and resources for conservation programs. Toledo Zoo
* waddesdon Foundation (through the Zoological Society of London): Funding conservation projects and research. Zoological Society of London
Looking Ahead
The future of the manumea remains uncertain, but the dedication of conservationists and the growing awareness of the species’ plight offer a glimmer of hope. Continued investment in research, habitat restoration, and predator control, coupled with strong community engagement, will be essential to ensure the survival of Samoa’s national bird for generations to come.
Key Takeaways:
* The manumea is an endangered species endemic to Samoa, facing threats from habitat loss and invasive predators.
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