Mangrove Finch
Camarhynchus heliobates
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mangrove_finch
Overview
The mangrove finch is a species of bird in the Darwin's finch group of the tanager family Thraupidae. It is endemic to the Galápagos Islands. It was found on the islands of Fernandina and Isabela, but recent surveys have failed to record the species on Fernandina.
It has been classified as critically endangered by BirdLife International, with an estimated population of 20–40 mature individuals in 2021, located in two large mangroves on Isabela. A study has shown that the two small populations remaining on Isabela Island have begun undergoing speciation and that one or both populations will eventually become extinct due to a lack of interbreeding.
The Mangrove Finch is critically endangered due to its extremely restricted range, being found only in mangrove forests on Isabela Island in the Galápagos. The species faces severe threats from habitat degradation, invasive species, and parasitic flies that attack nestlings, with the total population estimated at fewer than 100 individuals.
Habitat
Observations of widespread dieback in black mangrove trees in 2019 have raised concerns. While the mangrove finch can survive without these trees, they are the preferred nest sites. Changes in rainfall patterns negatively impact the population, resulting in fewer females attaining breeding condition. The species faces additional pressure from potential sea level rise driven by climate change.
Other threatened species in Thraupidae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Mangrove Finch classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Mangrove Finch live?
What are the main threats to Mangrove Finch?
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