Bird Feared Extinct Rediscovered in the Bahamas

10 comments

  1. Hi Ted, Thanks for your question. Certainly there is suitable pine forest habitat available on Andros, Great Abaco and also New Providence, but as far as I know, the bird has never been seen anywhere but on Grand Bahama. (the other islands have been partially searched and surveyed by birders and scientists studying other species). We don’t know if the bird previously occurred on these other islands in the historical past. But yes, we should keep looking for it i other pine forests (it could have been overlooked) and also consider these islands as places for future introductions, if the population on Grand Bahama can be recovered over time to good numbers. This would be an insurance policy against extinction of the species from a future hurricane, disease, habitat destruction or other threats on Grand Bahama.

  2. Thanks for your information and insights Keith! We can always hope that perhaps a small population lives deep within the pine forests of Abaco, or could perhaps be reintroduced there some day. Would you say that the area has been suitably surveyed? All the best, Lisa Sorenson (Executive Director, BirdsCaribbean)

  3. Lisa, I don’t think any targeted nuthatch survey has been carried out on Abaco. There are sharp and experienced eyes though! That said, the bird is tiny and the pine wood areas are huge. I guess it is possible that a handful exist in remote parts – eg in the National Park – that are rarely if ever visited because access is very limited. The nesting parrot researchers / guardians / BNT there have never reported one. Maybe there should be a survey while this topic is in the spotlight…

  4. Robyn Lewis says:

    I look forward to progress updates. When the Chatham Islands Black Robin was down to 5 birds, their recovery was the result of perseverance and innovation and good timing., not forgetting the amazing rejuvenation of an old female robin named Old Blue. That was in the 1970 to 1990 era. Much was learned from that time and since then science and field experience has added to the tools and knowledge needed to ensure this species continues.

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