Guam Rail, Gallirallus owstoni
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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