Saving Colorful Guam Kingfisher: Scientists Hopeful To Conserve Declining Bird Population

The latest report showed that Guam kingfisher hatchlings are expected to return to the wild for conservation and recovery efforts to save the said bird from the brink of extinction.

According to the website of Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, the Guam kingfisher, also known as Sihek, has green-blue wings and blue tails.

• The male Guam Kingfishers are recognizable with their brown-looking body.
• In terms of size, the Guam Kingfisher can weigh up to 70 grams and is 22 centimeters in length.
• They communicate with other species using loud and harsh noises.
• The breeding season of the Guam Kingfisher are said to be between December and July.

Almost- extinct population of Guam Kingfisher

The population of Guam Kingfisher suffered from a massive decline to nearly extinction due to the emergence of the brown tree snakes in Guam.

Based on the reports published in The Guardian and Independent UK, the arrival of the brown tree snakes also impacted other mammals. In the 1980s, scientists were alarmed by the bird's declining population.

The page of Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute reported that the Guam Kingfisher became extinct in 1986.

The Guam Kingfisher has been monitored, which helped increase the number to 140 from 29.

According to conservationist Claire Mcsweeney, they have four birds. They expect to reach a number of nine by the summer. The said birds will be released into the wild for conservation and repopulation efforts.

There are about two million brown snakes in Guam. As a result, the researchers thought of a better idea by releasing the snakes in Palmyra Atoll, which is 6,000km from the country.

The experts noted that they would monitor the bird once they are return to the wild. The place will be ideal for the birds to thrive.

The report explained that there are less than 150 Guam Kingfishers. With the small number, every bird is considered precious, and urgent conservation efforts are essential to save it from the brink of extinction.

Here are more facts about the Kingfisher

According to San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, kingfisher bird populations are known for beautiful colors and markings, with short legs and wings.

• They might look small, but they are good hunters of their prey. They consume fish, crayfish and other smaller animals.
• The report said that Kingfishers can lay up to two to ten eggs.

Unlike other bird species, the Kingfisher bird has a creative way to build their own habitats or nests. The AZ Animals reported that Kingfishers dig burrows for their nests.

Did you know?

The Guam Kingfisher has unique ways of looking for nests. Both the males and females participate in the possible selection. Together, they defend their nests from attacks or predators.

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