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There are only three extinct falcons – a biologist tells their story
Falcons are a thrilling species of birds, known for their impressive speed and agility in the skies. The peregrine falcon, for instance, holds the title of the world’s fastest bird, reaching speeds of up to 240 miles per hour while diving for prey. On the other hand, it is not so exciting to report that there have been at least three species of these birds that vanished forever. In a recent conversation with Forbes, a biologist sheds light on their story.
It starts with the Cuban kestrel (Falco kurochkini). This bird was known from fossilized remains found in western Cuba and is believed to have gone extinct shortly after European colonization began in the 1500s. What made this species unique was its adaptation for short bursts of movement rather than sustained flight. In other words, it spent most of its time on the ground hunting insects, small reptiles, and possibly amphibians.
The arrival of Europeans introduced invasive predators like rats, cats, and mongooses to the island, which likely decimated the Cuban kestrel population. Habitat destruction due to agriculture and logging also played a significant role in this extinction event.
The Réunion kestrel (Falco duboisi) was found only on Réunion Island in the Indian Ocean, part of the Mascarene Islands. It is known from a single historical reference describing it as a threat to domestic fowl and game. Unfortunately, the bird was persecuted soon after, and no further sightings were recorded. Subfossil remains discovered in 1974 confirmed its extinction.
The reason behind this extinction was similar to that of the Cuban kestrel – habitat loss due to human activities like deforestation and agriculture, introduction of invasive predators such as rats and cats, and persecution by humans.
Last but not least, we have the Guadalupe caracara (Caracara lutosa). This bird was endemic to Mexico’s Guadalupe Island, a remote Pacific island west of Baja California. It is considered one of the best-documented extinct falcons and the only member in this group not classified within the Falco genus. The species has been described as an opportunistic hunter that fed on seabird eggs, carrion, and small animals.
Unfortunately, it was deliberately exterminated by settlers and goat herders who believed it to be a threat to livestock. Habitat degradation caused by goats, and compounded by persecution, led to the Guadalupe caracara’s rapid decline. The last confirmed sighting occurred in 1903 when naturalist Rollo Beck shot the final known specimen during an expedition.
As for why these three falcons perished while other species thrived, it is essential to note that all three birds were native to islands. It has been demonstrated throughout history that birds inhabiting islands are more susceptible to extinction. This could be due to their limited range, which means extinction can occur quicker. Additionally, the lack of suitable hiding places from threats and predation on some islands makes them more vulnerable.
Lastly, island ecosystems tend to be particularly fragile, where an invasive species can tip the balance forever.
Source: www.forbes.com
