The Woodhen: a flightless island bird defying extinction.
Collingwood: CSIRO Publishing, 2013. Octavo, laminated boards, photographs and illustrations, maps.
WAS $60. This book tells the fascinating conservation story of the flightless Woodhen of Lord Howe Island. This unique large rail, was at the very brink of extinction with just 15 individuals found in 1980, when bold and risky actions were taken to save it. The book begins with the discovery and ecology of Lord Howe Island. It then details the history of the Woodhen, its place among the rails and their evolution of flightlessness, the planning, implementation and trials, tribulations and successes of the captive breeding programme and the way in which the wild population recovered. The ecology, behaviour and breeding biology of this unique flightless island rail are also discussed. The text is accompanied by numerous photographs and drawings. This is a story of survival, yet the bird remains highly endangered as it is under constant threat, which could tip it over the brink and to extinction. This book provides gripping insights into the potential for both losing and saving vertebrate species.