| Habitat
& Behavior:
The Nihoa Millerbird is an endemic bird found only
on Nihoa. Because Nihoa is a mere 156 acres, its habitat is very
limited.
These shy little birds spend their time near the ground in goosefoot
(Chenopodium sanwicheum)
and ilima (Sida Fallax), where they forage for insects. Their
nests are constructed of grass stems and rootlets and concealed
in small shrubs. Nesting may occur anytime between January and May,
and an average of two eggs are laid.
The Millerbird has a metallic and bubbling voice, but it is not
easily heard because of the terns flying overhead and the pounding
surf below.
Past
& Present:
The population size of the Nihoa Millerbird has
fluctuated between 300 and 700 birds in the last 30 years. Threats
to the Millerbird include introduced plants and animals, and fire.
All these threats are very serious as this is the only place in
the world where these birds can be found.
Conservation
Efforts:
The Nihoa Millerbird was listed as an endangered species in 1967
under the Federal Endangered Species Act. Nihoa is part of the Hawaiian
Islands National Wildlife Refuge created in 1909, and access is
restricted due to the island’s fragile ecosystem. It is also
designated as a Research Natural Area where state and federal biologists
work closely together to monitor and maintain Nihoa’s wildlife
and environment. Biologists are considering the possible translocation
of sufficient Millerbirds to create a second population on other
Hawaiian islands such as Laysan, Kaho`olawe, or Eastern Island at
Midway Atoll to reduce the possibility of extinction.
Trivia
quiz:
Where are Nihoa Millerbirds found?
[a] all
main Hawaiian islands
[b] all remote Hawaiian islands
[c] Nihoa only
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