Gallinula silvestris
The Makira Woodhen (Gallinula silvestris) is an enigmatic and critically endangered member of the rail family (Rallidae), known only from the remote, montane cloud forests of Makira Island in the Solomon Islands. This medium-sized, terrestrial rail measures approximately 23-27 cm (9-10.5 inches) in length and weighs between 180-240 grams (6.3-8.5 ounces). Its plumage is uniformly dark olive-brown to blackish-brown, with a slightly paler wash on the belly, providing excellent camouflage within...
Exclusively inhabits primary montane cloud and mossy forests with dense undergrowth, typically found at elevations between 700-1100 meters (2,300-3,600 feet) on Makira Island.
Feeds primarily on invertebrates gleaned from the forest floor, supplemented by various plant materials such as seeds, roots, and fallen fruits.
The Makira Woodhen is an exceedingly secretive and diurnal bird, spending its days foraging for food on the forest floor. It moves stealthily through dense leaf litter and undergrowth, primarily active during daylight hours, though specific roosting habits remain poorly documented. Its foraging s...
The Makira Woodhen is strictly endemic to Makira Island (formerly San Cristobal) in the Solomon Islands, an archipelago located in the South Pacific within Melanesia. Its distribution is highly restricted to the interior montane regions of the island, specifically found within primary cloud and m...
Critically Endangered
- The Makira Woodhen was considered 'lost' to science for 73 years, first described in 1931 but not reliably seen again until its rediscovery in 2004. - It is one of the most critically endangered and least-known bird species in the world, endemic to a single, remote island. - Unlike its more aqu...