Norfolk Island's 25 Morepork owls face extinction from inbreeding
Norfolk Island has 25 Morepork owls remaining. They risk dying out from inbreeding. New genetics from New Zealand could restore diversity.
The Norfolk Island Morepork owl, also called the Norfolk boobook, risks dying out from inbreeding. About 25 owls remain on the island.
All came from a single breeding pair. One female survived near-extinction in the 1980s.
A male Morepork was brought from New Zealand in 1988. The population briefly reached around 50 in the late 1990s.
But growth has stopped since then. Experts warn the window for saving the species is closing.
Monash University ornithologist Rohan Clarke estimates action is needed within years. The solution may be bringing more Moreporks from New Zealand to Norfolk Island.
This would restore genetic diversity. Talks are underway to determine whether the plan is feasible.
Without intervention, inbreeding will likely doom the population.
- About 25 owls
- Population remaining
- Around 50 owls in late 1990s
- Peak population
- 2021 study showed about 26 owls
- Study date
- Action needed within years
- Timeline for action
Why it mattersSaving species found only on this island depends on acting fast. This must happen before genetic damage becomes permanent.
AustraliaThe Norfolk boobook is unique to Australia's Norfolk Island, making its survival an Australian conservation priority and wildlife rescue priority.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 6 d ago
