Introduction
The Javan green magpie, a bird endemic to the upland forests of West Java province, Indonesia, is on the brink of extinction. However, thanks to the launch of an action plan by national and international conservation NGOs, this species may have a chance of survival. With only 50 individuals remaining in the wild, the Javan green magpie has been classified as critically endangered.
Causes of the Threat
Habitat loss and poaching for the songbird trade are the main causes of the decline of the Javan green magpie population. These birds are highly sought after due to their ability to mimic sounds, making them valuable in the songbird trade.
According to Andrew Owen, head of birds at Chester Zoo in the UK, "Very few have ever recorded these birds in the wild. The fact that the Javan green magpie is now so rare is also a reason why some people want to catch them and keep them".
Conservation Efforts
In recent years, the Javan green magpie has barely appeared in markets, likely due to its increasing rarity in the wild. Surveys carried out between 2018 and 2021 across 12 previously inhabited sites recorded no birds, raising the alarm about the critical situation of the species.
The authors of a 2023 study concluded that "we must assume that excessive trade has pushed this once reasonably widespread but perhaps never common species to the very brink of extinction". These birds, known locally as ekek geling due to their unique call, are sought after as master birds in the songbird trade.
Conclusion
The Javan green magpie received official protected status in 2019. With the launch of the conservation action plan, there is hope that this species can be saved from extinction. However, it is crucial that conservation efforts are continuous and effective to protect this unique bird and its habitat.
Source / Reference: Mongabay