Cahow population reaches 'critical milestone' with 100 nesting pairs

THURSDAY, MARCH 22: The number of nesting pairs of Cahows in Bermuda has topped the 100 mark.

Last year the island’s national bird population increased to 98 nesting pairs, which produced a record 56 fledged chicks.

Today there are 101 pairs of the critically endangered species nesting in Bermuda.

The Cahow population was almost totally decimated by the introduction of predators such as dogs, rats and pigs into Bermuda and hunting by the island’s early settlers.

And the ground-burrowing bird was thought to have become extinct until 1951 when the Cahow was rediscovered on several islets.

But the entire population was just 18 pairs.

A recovery program was launched to try and bring the Cahow back from the brink of extinction.

Jeremy Madeiros, Senior Terrestrial Conservation Officer, said: “The Recovery Program has reached a critical milestone, but the ultimate objective is to increase the number of nesting Cahows to at least 1000 nesting pairs.

“That is the only point at which it can be down-listed from “critically endangered” to “threatened”.

“One thousand pairs is still a small number for the entire planet, as the Cahow is completely endemic or unique to Bermuda, nesting no-where else on earth.”

Michael Weeks, Minister of Public Works, said: “This achievement is a fitting milestone to celebrate Bermuda’s 400th anniversary of colonization.

“I offer my congratulations to all those who have dedicated their lives to protecting the Cahow ensuring it not only survives, but thrives.”

For more information on the Cahow and Bermuda’s plants and animals visit www.conservation.bm.