We are passing along this information from an email from Rebecca Stirnemann. Help save the biodiversity of Samoa, specifically the Mao and Manumea, two highly endangered birds.
You can help support this project directly with donations by going here.
Ma’oma’o (Gymnomyza samoensis) or Mao
Photo by Rebecca Stirnemann at www.samoanbirds.com
From Samoanbirds.com:
The tropical rainforest of the Samoan islands are home to two unique species of bird found nowhere else on earth: the Ma’oma’o or Mao (Gymnomyza samoensis) and the Manumea (Didunculus strigirostris).
Little research has been done on these highly endangered endemic birds. The Manumea is the national bird of Samoa and is actually a pigeon. The Mao is a large honeyeater and research is showing that its vulnerability may be from slow breeding and predation of young by rats, cats, and dogs.
You can find more information about these two interesting bird species at BirdLife International, including some videos.
We suggest at the least all birders to become involved with BirdLife International and help spread the word for the conservation efforts they support.
You can help support this project directly with donations by going here.
Thanks for raising awareness on this issue. We cannot afford to lose this amazing birds!