Non-profit announces six new endemic birds for the Caribbean

BirdsCaribbean, described as an international network of members and partners committed to conserving Caribbean birds and their habitats, said it has welcomed six newly recognized endemic bird species in the Caribbean, highlighting the region’s incredible biodiversity and its vital role as an avian hotspot. In a release from its communications Manager, the organisation said this development stems from the latest updates by the American Ornithological Society, which expanded the Caribbean’s endemic bird list to an impressive 185 species.

Rather than discovering completely unknown birds, these new species emerged from deeper research into the unique geographical and biological features of the Caribbean. Islands are hotspots for endemism because isolated bird populations tend to evolve into distinct forms over time, the release states. As these differences accumulate, some populations eventually diverge enough to be classified as separate species.

The bird formerly known as the House Wren has undergone a major revision and is now split into seven different species—four of which are newly recognized as Caribbean endemics. “We welcome the Grenada Wren, St. Lucia Wren, St. Vincent Wren, and the Kalinago Wren, which is native to Dominica. The Kalinago Wren, named in honour of Dominica’s indigenous Kalinago people, was also historically found on Guadeloupe and Martinique, though it has since disappeared from those islands.”

Trinidad and Tobago now has the Southern House Wren, whose range extends into Central and South America. However, it is believed that research may reveal that Trinidad and Tobago harbours its own distinct wren species. Further study is needed, the release adds.

Additionally, the White-breasted Thrasher was split into two distinct species, the Martinique Thrasher and the St. Lucia Thrasher. The Martinique Thrasher is considered critically endangered, while the St. Lucia Thrasher is listed as endangered. “These new classifications are a critical step for conservation, underscoring the urgency of protecting these birds’ native habitats.”

BirdsCaribbean further said that these new species underscore the ongoing potential for further bird research in the region.

“With new species being identified every year, it’s clear there is still much to learn about the incredible birdlife right here in our backyards, parks, forests, wetlands, and coastal habitats. It’s also imperative that we support conservation initiatives and take care of these unique birds by reducing the threats they face. It’s up to all of us to protect their habitats to ensure they thrive long into the future, for the benefit and enjoyment of all.”