The Micronesian Kingfisher, Todiramphus cinnamominus, was found on three islands or island groups, Guam, Pohnpei, and Palau. The birds of each island are considered subspecies, although some authorities consider each full species. The nominate species T. c. cinnamominus (image above) was found on the island of Guam but became extinct in the wild because of the disastrous introduction of the Brown Tree Snake. It still survives in captive breeding programs and there are hopes of re-introducing it to suitable areas in Guam.
There are currently about 100 individuals of the Guam subspecies in captive breeding programs. Two factors which are discouraging towards successful re-introduction are low breeding success and the continued presence of the Brown Tree Snake in the natural habitat.
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The last time I was in the Orkney Islands, I found that one of the world’s largest Arctic Tern colonies was deserted due to the failure of the local fish stocks that was their food supply. Unfortunately the above National Geographic video describes a similar story.
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Masked Bobwhite, Colinus virginianus ridgwayi, male
The Northern Bobwhite has a wonderful subspecies called the Masked Bobwhite, Colinus virginianus ridgwayi. It has been extinct or close to it in the wild primarily caused by loss of breeding habitat. A great deal of work has been done to try to re-establish wild populations using birds raised in captivity. One of the target locations for this has been the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge (BANWR) in southern Arizona. There has been no conclusive success to this point.
The Peregrine Falcon, Falco peregrinus, is one of the most exciting birds to watch in the world, especially when it chases its prey at speeds of 200 mph (320 kmph).
It breeds widely, in fact it can be found everywhere but the polar regions. It has suffered breeding failure due to DDT contamination but has made an excellent recovery after that chemical was banned.
This increased breeding success has happened here in Ontario with a good number of pairs raising young birds. They prefer tall manmade structures like buildings and bridges, especially if there is a supply of pigeons nearby.
Peregrine Falcon, Falco peregrinus
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A species of grasslands, the Grasshopper Sparrow, Ammodramus savannarum, has declined like many grassland species due to habitat losses, and early cutting of grass for hay.
It gets its name from it insect like buzz of a song. Once you learn its song, it can be easy to locate in breeding season as it likes to sing from an exposed perch.
Grasshopper Sparrow, Ammodramus savannarum
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The Steller’s Sea-eagle, Haliaeetus pelagicus, is on average, the largest member of the Hawk family, although individual Harpy Eagle and Phillipine Eagle may be larger. It breeds on the coast of northern Pacific Asia and winters to South Korea and Japan.
Like other members of its genus, the Bald Eagle and African Fish Eagle, it feeds primarily on fish.
Birdlife International classifies it as Vulnerable due to a small and declining population.
Steller's Sea-eagle Haliaeetus pelagicus
These images were taken of birds in captivity at the Cincinnati Zoo.
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Bird species are suffering around the world, but species confined to islands have been in particular peril. They often have small populations making them vulnerable to local dangers. Often predators are introduced for which they have developed no defences. Hawaii for example has lost at least 9 species in the last 200 years with more in great peril.
Guam has also suffered losses and the Guam Rail was extirpated on the island in the late 1980’s. It has survived in breeding programs at some zoos, where the above image was taken. There has also been an attempt at introducing on the island of Rota but this has not necessarily been successful.
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This lovely Red-winged Blackbird was perched along the Big Creek marsh trail at Long Point. She sits on a graceful plant called phragmites or Common Reed. It is a tall plant that is often used in gardens but it has invaded natural marsh area throughout North America and is difficult to control.
Ontario Parks have recognized the dangers of this plant and are studying possible controls. They include herbicide, cutting, burning, smothering and biological.
Red-winged Blackbird female
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Although grassland birds have done poorly in recent years due to habitat loss and changes in agricultural practices, the Savannah Sparrow, Passerculus sandwichensis, seems to be holding its own.
It is actually named after the City of Savannah, Georgia although the name is apt.
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There is an area a few kilometers from my house that has some large communication towers, and they leave the grass uncut till late summer. This makes it a haven for grassland birds who have suffered from recent agricultural practice of early grassland cutting and bailing.
It is always a treat to hear the bubbly songs of Bobolinks when they return to breed.
The male plumage is unusual because it is light above which would seem to make it an easier target for overhead birds of prey.
In the background, Savannah Sparrows and Eastern Meadowlarks are singing.
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