NIHOA FINCH Psittirostra cantans ultima (Bryan) 



Order: PASSERIFORMES Family: DREPANIDIDAE 



Distinguishing characteristics : Hawaiian honeycreeper with thick, finch-like bill. 

 Male has head and breast yellow becoming dull white on abdomen. Upper parts brownish 

 washed with yellow. Female similar, but duller and with brownish flanks. Immatures 

 streaked above and below . Differs from other race of the species on Laysan Island by 

 darker coloration and smaller size . 



Present distribution : Endemic to Nihoa Island, Hawaii. About 10 from 36 transplanted 

 in 1967 surviving on Fern Island at French Frigate Shoals as of 1972. 



Former distribution : Nihoa Island, Hawaii. 



Status : Fairly common where it occurs; geographic range limited to one small island 

 makes it vulnerable to extinction if the habitat is adversely altered or harmful insects 

 or other animals are introduced . 



Estimated numbers : About 3,500 based on transect counts in September, 1972 by 

 refuge personnel . Populations fluctuate from year to year for unknown reasons . 



Breeding rate in the wild : Two to four eggs . 



Reasons for decline : Not known to have declined. 



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

 is included in the Hawaiian Islands National Wildlife Refuge . Frequency of patrol by 

 refuge personnel is being increased. Field investigations are being continued. Landing 

 on island restricted and by permit only . Status of refuge and need of permit information 

 included on nautical charts of area and in U.S. Coast Pilot. Status of refuge publicized 

 in news media. 



Measures proposed : Increased patrol by refuge personnel and continued publicity to 

 acquaint public, military and seafarers with the status of island. Trial introductions on 

 other islands such as Necker Island, which most closely resembles Nihoa, but not 

 Laysan where another race of this species would lose its identity by interbreeding . 

 Prevent introduction of harmful insects, plants, and animals. Initiate artificial propagation 

 program. Continue ecological and life history research of the species. Continue to 

 publicize critical status and aesthetic and scientific values. 



Number in captivity : Four at University of Hawaii . 



Breeding potential in captivity : Possible. One young raised by Dr. Andrew Berger at 

 University of Hawaii from nesting attempt by birds in experimental propagation program . 



References : 



Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife Administrative Reports . 

 Munro, G. C. 1960. Birds of Hawaii. 



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