The Guam kingfisher, called sihek in Chamorro, is a species of kingfisher from the United States Territory of Guam. It is restricted to a captive breeding program following its extinction in the wild due primarily to predation by the introduced brown tree snake.
Region
Micronesia
Typical Environment
Historically native to forested habitats on Guam, including mature limestone forest, secondary growth, mangroves, and coastal woodland edges. It favored areas with abundant perches and clear sightlines for sallying to prey. Today it persists only in captivity, with planned reintroduction to secure, predator-managed sites. Natural habitat conservation on Guam focuses on snake control and forest restoration to support future releases.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Called sihek in Chamorro, the Guam kingfisher went extinct in the wild after the invasive brown tree snake decimated Guam’s native birds. It now survives only through a carefully managed captive breeding program in accredited zoos. Reintroduction efforts are underway, paired with predator control and island biosecurity planning.
Predation from the introduced brown tree snake drove the Guam kingfisher to extinction in the wild.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, purposeful flights between perches
Social Behavior
Usually found as territorial pairs that defend small home ranges. Nests in tree cavities or arboreal termite mounds, with both parents sharing incubation and chick-rearing. Courtship includes vocal duets and food exchanges on prominent perches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, ringing chatter and rattling series of sharp kek notes. Calls carry well through forest and are often delivered from exposed perches, especially at dawn.
