The Makira woodhen, also known as the Makira moorhen, San Cristobal moorhen or kia, is a species of bird in the family Rallidae. It is endemic to the Solomon Islands. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest. It is critically endangered and sometimes considered extinct from habitat loss and predation by feral cats. The last recorded sighting was in 1953. Surveys in 2015–16 failed to find the species; though there were a number of reports of birds matching the description of the species from within the previous 10 years, the scientists concluded that the woodhen was likely extinct.
Region
Southwest Pacific (Solomon Islands)
Typical Environment
Historically restricted to the forested interiors of Makira Island, favoring dense understory near streams, swamps, and wet thickets. It used both lowland and montane rainforest, moving through tangles of vegetation on the forest floor. Because of its secretive habits, it was seldom seen in open areas. If it persists, it likely survives in remote, minimally disturbed forest tracts. Human encroachment and the presence of feral predators have reduced the availability of secure habitat.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Makira moorhen, San Cristóbal moorhen, or kia, this elusive rail is known only from Makira (San Cristóbal) in the Solomon Islands. It inhabits dense, wet forest and is notoriously shy and difficult to detect. It is listed as Critically Endangered and possibly extinct; the last confirmed record dates to 1953, with later surveys failing to find it. Predation by feral cats and habitat loss are considered primary threats.
Temperament
secretive and crepuscular
Flight Pattern
reluctant flier with short, low flights
Social Behavior
Likely occurs singly or in pairs within dense forest, typical of many island rails. Nests would be expected to be concealed near water or in thick vegetation. Breeding behavior is poorly known and may involve territorial pairs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are unconfirmed; if similar to related moorhens and rails, they would include grunts, squeaks, and harsh clucking notes delivered from cover, often at dusk or night. Vocalizations would be used to maintain contact in dense vegetation.
Plumage
unknown
Diet
An omnivorous rail likely taking invertebrates such as insects, snails, and worms from leaf litter and muddy margins. It would also consume seeds, fallen fruits, and tender plant material. Foraging is expected to be methodical, probing and gleaning along the forest floor and near water.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in dense understory, along stream edges, marshy spots, and forested seeps where soft substrates and cover are available. Often stays within tangles and root mats to avoid detection.
