SPECIES: Hypotaenidia sylvestris — Lord Howe Island Woodhen
CLASSIFICATION: Endangered
The Lord Howe Island (LHI) Woodhen is quite the curious character. A flightless, inquisitive bird by nature, they can be highly territorial when in pairs. Endemic to the Island - and sadly endangered - there could be as few as 150 birds left. The species has been in quite a decline since Lord Howe was settled and inhabited some 200 years ago. The LHI Woodhen is found in subtropical rainforest on the Island but does seem to prefer the lowlands of the rainforest, possibly because of the more desirable vegetation growing that it prefers to eat.
As is with so many of our native species, loss of habitat is cited as a major threat to its ongoing survival. The LHI Woodhen has also had to contend with being hunted by humans and predated on by numerous animals introduced to the Island including feral pigs, feral cats and dogs. More recently, rats have played their part in predating on eggs and chicks of these tame yet creatures.
Today, FAME is proud to annouce our project commitment to guard the paradise of Lord Howe Island and the species endemic to the Island, of which the Lord Howe Island Woodhen is but one. Our project, in conjuction with the Lord Howe Island Board and the NSW Government will help increase the number and breeding success of a range of woodhens and seabirds endemic to Lord Howe Island. For more info or to make a donation, visit the project page of our website.