Uncovering the Hidden Gems: Revisiting Extinct Birds

Have you heard the exciting news about the Santa Marta sabrewing? This elusive bird, rarely seen and shrouded in mystery, made a stunning appearance in Colombia in 2022, much to the delight of conservationists. This incredible sighting is just one of the many success stories stemming from the Search for Lost Birds campaign, a joint effort by conservation groups from around the globe.

Did you know that there were over 120 bird species that were once thought to be lost, not spotted or recorded in the wild for more than a decade? The goal of the Search for Lost Birds initiative is to involve the public in documenting and sharing information about these missing species, tapping into the power of everyday individuals to provide valuable data. Despite the looming threat of extinction, the project has already produced promising results, with 15 missing species rediscovered since its launch in 2021.

One of the remarkable rediscoveries is the Long-billed bush warbler, which disappeared in 1977 only to resurface in 2022, thanks to the dedication of birdwatcher James Eaton. Another remarkable find was the Black-naped pheasant-pigeon, believed to be lost since 1896 but captured on camera by an international team led by Indigenous hunters.

The Santa Marta sabrewing, missing since 2010, was recently sighted in the mountains of Colombia, revealing its stunning emerald plumage in a mesmerizing display. Similarly, the Dusky tetraka, last seen in 1999, was rediscovered in the rainforests of Madagascar, underscoring the importance of conservation efforts in safeguarding biodiversity.

Lastly, the Urich’s tyrannulet, a rare flycatcher thought to have vanished after 2005, was rediscovered in Venezuela in 2021, with ornithologist David Ascanio capturing unprecedented photos and recordings of its call.

These rediscoveries serve as a testament to the resilience of nature and the significance of conservation endeavors in protecting our planet’s biodiversity. The Search for Lost Birds project continues to inspire hope and foster collaboration in the mission to conserve and safeguard our precious wildlife.