Gymnomyza

Abstract: The Crow Honeyeater (Gymnomyza aubryana) is a critically endangered bird, endemic to the main island of New Caledonia, but it is poorly known owing to its elusive nature. We conducted playback surveys to assess the distribution, habitat preferences and vocal activity of the species. Crow Honeyeaters responded well to playback, with response rates reaching 67% at times. Our surveys revealed two distinct populations, separated by ~250 km: one in the north of the island and the other, larger population in the south. The range of the northern population appears to be very small. Presence of the species was linked to rainforests growing on oligotrophic soils, primarily on ultramafic substrates. Approximately 315–700 km2 of suitable habitat for the species remains, corresponding to a maximum estimated population of 315–700 breeding pairs. The size and range of the Crow Honeyeater population is much smaller than previously assumed, and comprehensive management will be required to ensure its survival.

Abstract: New Caledonia supports outstanding biological diversity, including many endemic bird species, some of which are threatened with extinction. The high levels of taxonomically unusual avian endemism make the islands one of the most urgent priorities for bird conservation in the Pacific region. We provide new data on the distribution of, and threats to, New Caledonian birds of conservation interest and provide a review of their status and requirements for conservation action. In addition, we report two rediscoveries: the first record of the New Caledonian Owlet-nightjar, Aegotheles savesi, since its description in 1880; and the only confirmed record of the Crow Honeyeater, Gymnomyza aubryana, in north New Caledonia during the twentieth century.