Endangered cahow relative in need of help

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2: Bermudians are being asked to help a close relative of the cahow following a massive forest fire on the island of Madeira.

Several breeding adults and 65 percent of this year’s chicks of the endangered Zino’s Petrel were killed in the fire.  

The Bermuda Audubon Society is appealing for funds to carry out emergency conservation work needed before the winter sets in on Madeira.

According to a BirdLife International report: “Zino’s Petrel Pterodroma madeira is Europe’s rarest seabird and one of the rarest birds in the world, nesting only on a few mountain ledges in the rugged central massif of Madeira island.”

Bermuda Audubon Society president Andrew Dobson said: “You can make a donation online or send a cheque to Bermuda Audubon Society and we will pass on your donation. The target is $15,000 (£10,000) and about $5,000 has already been raised.

“If you can offer a small donation you will be aiding the survival of this rare seabird.”