Assessing the distribution of estrildid finches on Vanuatu using local knowledge

Abstract

A rapid appraisal technique, using local people's knowledge of bird life, was used to map the distribution and assess conservation needs of estrildid finches on Vanuatu. Most ni-Vanuatu, especially men, have good knowledge of the local bird fauna. Not surprisingly, therefore, there was close agreement between the distributions of finches predicted from the use of this technique and from field records of the birds. The data suggest that the ranges of two endemic subspecies, Royal Parrot Finch Erythrura cyanovirens regia and Blue-faced Parrot Finch Erythrura trichroa cyanofrons, have declined in recent years. Royal Parrot Finch, in particular, should be given high conservation priority. It now occupies a tiny global range and is believed to be particularly vulnerable to further habitat change.