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Bryan Shirota recently photographed four elusive I’oi at the Takitumu Reserve. 24071901
The Rarotonga starling (Ī’oi) is getting some much-needed attention. Found only in the forests of Rarotonga, the Rarotonga starling often hides from view, its dark, smoky plumage blending in with the dark tree canopy and not drawing attention to itself.
Te Ipukarea Society has launched a new research effort with an ecologist funded by the Volunteer Services Overseas. The first phase of the project aims to reveal the breeding and nesting habits of the Ī’oi, which is crucial to understanding and conserving the species.
Ī’oi are burrowing birds that nest in hollows in tall trees. Finding these nests has historically been challenging, and few have been discovered, hampering understanding of their breeding ecology, including the timing of the breeding season.
By finding Ī’oi nests and carefully observing their development, researchers can gather valuable information that helps us understand the species and how to protect it. For example, some species, such as the frigatebird or the Kota’a, lay only one egg per year and invest resources and months of time in raising a chick.
In contrast, some species, such as introduced starlings, can nest multiple times in a season, lay up to six eggs, and can easily nest again if a nest fails due to predation, extreme weather, or other things that can go wrong.
In this case, the kotaa as a population are more vulnerable because they cannot respond quickly to disturbances by producing more chicks and easily increasing their population size.
Understanding how often Ī’oi reproduce and their reproductive success will help us better understand the extent of the threats they face.
In addition, artificial nests were placed in the Takitumu Reserve to test whether the Ī’oi would like them.
Nest boxes are a valuable conservation tool used around the world to provide secure nesting sites for burrowing birds. They can be useful in situations where forests are recovering and there aren’t enough large trees with holes. Competition between species can result in not having enough natural tree holes to nest in. In addition, nest boxes can protect birds from predators.
If the trial proves that the Ī’oi do use the provided nest boxes, this will make it much easier to carefully monitor the nests and collect new data. It’s much easier to lift the lid of a box than to try to peek into a six-meter-high hole!
Te Ipukarea Society is looking for volunteers to help with this exciting research. Volunteers will be able to help with Ī’oi monitoring surveys, including collecting behavioural data during the breeding season and locating nests within the Takitumu Reserve. You don’t need to have research experience, just a love of nature and an interest in protecting our native species.
Volunteers must be physically fit, able to work on foot and off-road, and have keen observation skills. This work will start in August and last for several months. We would like to see at least one day a week during this period. If you or someone you know (over 18 years old) meets this requirement, or you would like more information, please email te.ipukarea.society.inc@gmail.com
Your participation is vital to protecting our Ī’oi population for future generations.
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