DISCOVERY OF NEW SEABIRD SPECIES BOOSTS SAMOA'S BIODIVERSITY
New Seabird found in Samoa (Photo: Samoa Conservation Society)
In a significant development for Samoa's biodiversity, three new species of seabirds have been confirmed on the main island of Upolu since February 2023. The sightings, initially noted during offshore surveys, raised hopes of potential breeding grounds, which were later confirmed with the discovery of a tropical shearwater and a wedge-tailed shearwater in the village of Malololelei in February and September, respectively. Additionally, the presence of Tahiti petrels was confirmed on Upolu during research on the national bird of Samoa, the Manumea.
The Samoa Conservation Society (SCS), in collaboration with the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), is spearheading efforts to delve deeper into Samoa's seabird biodiversity and implement measures to protect these newfound species. Ms. Karen Baird, SPREP’s Migratory Species Adviser, emphasized the vital role of seabirds in nutrient transfer, supporting fisheries, and aiding traditional navigation.
While the exact locations of these seabird colonies remain unknown, concerted efforts are underway to ensure public awareness. Posters have been circulated on social media, urging the community to report petrel sightings and offer assistance to chicks leaving nests, particularly those at risk of disorientation due to lights. The campaign also provides information on petrel characteristics, attractions, and usual habitats.
Seabirds hold profound cultural significance in Samoan traditions, featuring prominently in motifs, legends, proverbs, fishing practices, and ocean navigation. Mr. James Atherton, President of the Samoa Conservation Society, expressed the society's delight in collaborating with SPREP and MNRE, emphasizing the critical importance of protecting seabirds for cultural, economic, and ecological conservation reasons.
Further initiatives are in the pipeline, with plans for MNRE, SCS, and SPREP to conduct village visits and consultations to complement the ongoing social media campaign. Mr. Seumaloisalafai Afele Fai’ilagi, Assistant Chief Executive Officer for MNRE’s Division of Environment and Conservation, underscored the thrilling development of discovering three new seabird species. He highlighted the critical need to conserve and safeguard Samoa's vulnerable ecosystems, commending the ongoing efforts of the involved teams.
As Samoa celebrates the rich diversity of its avian inhabitants, the collaborative efforts of these organizations aim to ensure the continued vitality of the newfound seabird species, promoting sustainable development practices and reinforcing stewardship of natural resources for a healthy environment.