LARGE KAUAI THRUSH (KAUAI OMAO) Phaeornis obscurus myadestina (Stejneger) 



Order: PASSERIFORMES Family: TURDIDAE 



Distinguishing characteristics : Dark brown upper parts, gray underparts; plump. 

 Differs from the Small Kauai Thrush in larger size, plump appearance, and dark (not 

 flesh colored) legs; lacks white mark over eye. Has habit of trembling. 



Present distribution : Most often observed in Alakai Swamp on island of Kauai, Hawaii. 



Former distribution : Reportedly the most common forest bird in all forests of Kauai in 

 1891. 



Status : Restricted distribution and small numbers . Power and irrigation dam proposed 

 on edge of Alakai Swamp . 



Estimated numbers : Unknown--but presently low . 



Breeding rate in the wild : Unknown . 



Reasons for decline : Encroachment of civilization, including feral grazing animals, on 

 its specialized habitat with reduction of heavy forest. Also possibly the effect of 

 introduced diseases and their insect vectors or competition from introduced birds . 



Protective measures already taken : Protected by State and Federal law . Selective 

 limitation by State and Federal Governments of introduction of foreign species . Establish- 

 ment of the 10,000-acre Alakai Swamp Wilderness Preserve by Hawaii State regulation 

 which prohibits disturbance of the major habitat. Ecological and life history studies begun. 



Measures proposed : Preservation of natural environment and establishment of needed 

 refuges and sanctuaries. Control predators. Prevent introduction of harmful insects, 

 plants , and animals . Inspection and fumigation of all arriving aircraft and ships . 

 Control of feral grazing animals. Initiate propagation program to develop techniques 

 which may be applied to this and other Hawaiian forest birds . Publicize critical status 

 and aesthetic and scientific values. Quarantine on all birds, including cage birds, 

 brought into the State to prevent introduction of disease. Intensify research. Initiate 

 propagation program to develop techniques that could be applied to this and other 

 Hawaiian forest birds . " 



Number in captivity : Probably none . 



Breeding potential in captivity : Unknown . 



References : 



Berger, A. J. 1970. The present status of the birds of Hawaii . Pac . Sci. 24(1): 



29-42. 

 Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife Administrative Reports . 



168 



