Short Wave Meet The Ko'Ko', The Comeback Bird
Jan 4, 2021
For nearly forty years, the Guam Rail, or Ko'Ko', was considered extinct in the wild due to an invasive snake. Remarkably, wildlife biologist Suzanne Medina shares how concerted efforts led to its successful reintroduction. The story involves innovative breeding strategies and teamwork between biologists and military personnel. Despite ongoing challenges from predators, the Ko'Ko' is now thriving, showcasing hope for other endangered species. This tale of resilience highlights the power of collaboration in conservation.
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The Silent Invasion
- Brown tree snakes arrived in Guam on military cargo ships after World War II.
- With no natural predators, they decimated the native bird populations.
Extinction Crisis
- Biologists initially lacked funding to protect the birds.
- By the late 1980s, several species, including the Guam Rail (Ko'ko'), were extinct in the wild.
Rescuing the Ko'ko'
- Military personnel formed human chains to capture the last 21 Ko'ko'.
- Today, thanks to breeding programs, there are more Ko'ko' in the wild than in captivity.