In case you have missed our latest news on the project to save the Henderson petrel, have a look at the most recent blog from our Conservation Director, Martin Harper. Here are a few bits of information about this that might be of interest.
Where is it? Henderson island is the largest island of the Pitcairn group in the remote waters of the South Pacific, 5000 km away from the nearest substantial landmass.
Why are the UK government and the RSPB involved? Henderson island is a UK oversea's territory that is also a World Heritage site, it has rare endemic flora and fauna, which we are responsible for protecting.
What is so special about the Henderson petrel? The Henderson petrel Pterodroma atrata is afforded endangered species status and is only known to breed on Henderson island, it's population is severely depleted by rat predation as a result of humans introducing rats. Without decisive action, we could lose this species.
What other birds are on Henderson island? As well as other threatened petrel species and seabirds like noddies and tropic birds, Henderson supports four endemic land birds which include the Henderson fuit dove Ptilinopus insularis, Henderson crake Porzana atra, Stephen's lorikeet Vini stepheni and Henderson reed warbler Acrocephalus taiti. Check out the links for more information and images of these special species, all of which should benefit once the rats have been removed from the eco-system.
Warden Intern at Otmoor.