Birdsong field guide
Samoan Moorhen
Gallinula pacifica
A small, critically endangered or possibly extinct rail endemic to the island of Savai'i, characterized by its dark plumage and vibrant red frontal shield.
What it sounds like
Reported to produce low-pitched, hooting 'woo-woo' sounds or typical rail-like clucks.
Reference call, compare with what you heard
No reference call found yet · Xeno-canto
Field notes
- Locally known as 'puna'e' (meaning 'the jumper') for its habit of leaping when startled.
- The species is likely flightless or nearly so, a trait that evolved in the absence of native mammalian predators.
- Historical accounts uniquely suggest this bird may have nested in underground burrows, unlike most other rails.
- It has not been definitively recorded by scientists since 1873, though unconfirmed sightings occurred in the late 20th century.
- Early observers noted its diet likely included a higher proportion of insects and small invertebrates compared to other moorhens.
Habitat
Dense, high-altitude montane rainforests and rugged upland terrain.
Range
Savai'i, Samoa.
Similar & commonly confused birds
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