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Extinct birds

Encyclopedia : E : EX : EXT : Extinct birds

This page refers only to birds that have gone extinct in historical times and were subject to scientific study. For a list of early taxa of birds known only from fossils, see Fossil birds. For birds extinct in Late Quaternary prehistoric times and (usually) known from specimens not completely fossilized, please refer to Late Quaternary prehistoric birds.
Since 1500, over 100 species of birds have become extinct, and this rate of extinction seems to be increasing. The situation is exemplified by Hawaii, where 30% of all known recently extinct species originally lived. Other areas, such as Guam, have also been hard hit; Guam has lost over 60% of its native species in the last 30 years, many of them to the introduced Brown Tree Snake.

There are today about 10,000 species of birds, with roughly 1200 considered to be under threat of extinction. Except for a dozen or so species the threat is man-made.

Island species in general, and flightless island species in particular are most at risk. The disproportionate number of rails in the list reflects the tendency of that family to lose the ability to fly when geographically isolated. Even more rails became extinct before they could be described by scientists; these taxa are listed in Later Quaternary Prehistoric Birds.

The extinction dates given below are usually approximations of the actual date of extinction. In some cases, more exact dates are given as it is sometimes possible to pinpoint the date of extinction to a specific year or even day (the San Benedicto Rock Wren is possibly the most extreme example - its extinction could be timed with an accuracy of maybe half an hour). Extinction dates in the literature are usually the dates of the last verified record (credible observation or specimen taken); in many Pacific birds which became extinct shortly after European contact, however, this leaves an uncertainty period of over a century because the islands on which they used to occur were only rarely visited by scientists.

Dodo
Dodo

Contents

Extinct bird species

The Ostrich and related ratites.
The taxonomy of the elephant birds is not fully resolved; it is almost certain that at least one taxon survived until Recent times, but it is not clear which species the reports refer to, if there were indeed more than one.
  • Lesser Megalapteryx, Megalapteryx didinus (South Island, New Zealand)
    • Generally believed to have been extinct by 1500, this is the only moa species that according to current knowledge might have survived until later times, possibly as late as the 1830s.
  • King Island Emu, Dromaius ater (King Island, Australia, 1822)
    • Extinct in the wild c.1805, the last captive specimen died in 1822 in the Jardin des Plantes.
  • Kangaroo Island Emu, Dromaius baudinianus (Kangaroo Island, Australia, 1827)

    • Ducks, geese and swans.
    A relict species from Northeast Asia. Officially critically endangered due to recent unconfirmed reports.
  • Réunion Shelduck, Alopochen kervazoi (Réunion, Mascarenes, c.1690s)
  • Mauritian Shelduck, Alopochen mauritianus (Mauritius, Mascarenes, late 1690s)
  • Amsterdam Island Duck, Anas marecula (Amsterdam Island, South Indian Ocean, 1800)
  • Mauritian Duck, Anas theodori (Mauritius and Réunion, Mascarenes, late 1690s)
  • Mariana Mallard, Anas oustaleti (Marianas, West Pacific, 1981)
  • Finsch's Duck, Chenonetta finschi from New Zealand possibly survived to 1870
  • Pink-headed Duck, Netta caryophyllacea (East India, Bangladesh, North Myanmar, 1945?)
    • Officially critically endangered due to parts of its former range not yet being surveyed, but probably extinct. The only area in which it might reasonably still exist is Northern Myanmar due to its remoteness: the Leaf Muntjac, a species of small deer, was newly described from the Putao area as late as 1998. Reports of Pink-headed Ducks continue to be received from this area, but searches have been inconclusive.
  • Madagascar Pochard, Aythya innotata (Madagascar, 1992?)
    • Officially critically endangered, possibly extinct.
  • Réunion Pochard, Aythya cf. innotata (Réunion, Mascarenes, c.1690s)
    • A bone of a pochard found on Réunion seems to resolve the reports of canards other than the Mauritian Duck having occurred on the island. The taxonomic status of this form cannot be resolved until more material is found, however.
  • Labrador Duck, Camptorhynchus labradorius (Northeast North America, c.1880)
  • Auckland Islands Merganser, Mergus australis (Auckland Islands, Southwest Pacific, 1902)

    • Quails and relatives.
    • The Giant Scrubfowl, Megapodius molistructor, may have survived on New Caledonia to the late 18th century as evidenced by decriptions of the bird named "Tetrao australis" and later "Megapodius andersoni".
    • New Zealand Quail, Coturnix novaezelandiae (New Zealand, 1875)
    • Himalayan Quail, Ophrysia superciliosa (North India, late 19th century?)
    Officially critically endangered. Not recorded with certainty since 1876, but thorough surveys are still required, and there is a recent set of possible (though unlikely) sightings around Naini Tal in 2003. A little-known native name from Western Nepal probably refers to this bird, but for various reasons, no survey for Ophrysia has ever been conducted in that country, nor is it generally assumed to occur there (due to the native name being overlooked).

    Podicipediformes

    Grebes.
    Officially critically endangered, possibly extinct, this species almost certainly became extinct through habitat destruction and hybridization with the Little Grebe.
  • Atitlán Grebe, Podilymbus gigas (Lake Atitlán, Guatemala, 1986)

    • Petrels and storm-petrels.
    Officially critically endangered, possibly extinct, but a thorough survey in 2000 concluded the species was certainly extinct.
  • St Helena Bulwer's Petrel, Bulweria bifax (Saint Helena, Atlantic, early 16th century)
  • Jamaica Petrel, Pterodroma caribbaea (Jamaica, West Indies)
    • Possibly a subspecies of the Black-capped Petrel; unconfirmed reports suggest it might survive. Officially classified as critically endangered, possibly extinct.
  • Pterodroma cf. leucoptera (Mangareva, Gambier Islands, 20th century?)
    • A wing of a carcass similar to Gould's Petrel was recovered on Mangareva in 1922, where it possibly bred. No such birds are known to exist there today.
  • Falla's Petrel, Pterodroma occulta (Vanuatu? 20th century?)
    • Only known from 6 specimens taken in 1927 near Vanuatu. Might still survive; breeding grounds unknown and was not recognized until 2001.
  • St Helena Gadfly Petrel, Pterodroma rupinarum (Saint Helena, Atlantic, early 16th century)

    • Cormorants and related birds.

    Herons and related birds.
    Known only from subfossil bones, but the description of a flightless Ascension bird by F. André Thevet cannot be identified with anything other than this species.
  • New Zealand Little Bittern, Ixobrychus novaezelandiae (New Zealand, late 19th century)
    • Long considered to be vagrant individuals of the Australian Little Bittern, bones recovered from Holocene deposits indicate that this was indeed a distinct taxon, but it might not be a separate species.
  • Réunion Sacred Ibis, Threskiornis solitarius (Réunion, Mascarenes, early 18th century)
    • This species was the base for the supposed "Réunion Solitaire", a supposed relative of the Dodo and the Rodrigues Solitaire. Given the fact that ibis, but no dodo-like bones were found on Réunion and that old descriptions match a flightless Sacred Ibis quite well, the "Réunion Solitaire" hypothesis has been refuted.
  • The "Painted Vulture" (Sarcorhamphus sacra), a Floridan bird supposedly similar to the King Vulture, is based on a misidentification of the Crested Caracara.

    • Birds of prey.

    Rails and allies.
    The Laysan Rail was a diminutive omnivore
    Enlarge
    The Laysan Rail was a diminutive omnivore

    • Antillean Cave-Rail, Nesotrochis debooyi from Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands possibly survived into the Modern Era.
    • Hawkins' Rail, Diaphorapteryx hawkinsi (Chatham Islands, SW Pacific, 19th century)
    • Red Rail, Aphanapteryx bonasia (Mauritius, Mascarenes, c.1700)
    • Rodrigues Rail, Aphanapteryx leguati (Rodrigues, Mascarenes, mid-18th century)
    • Bar-winged Rail, Nesoclopeus poecilopterus (Fiji, Polynesia, c.1980)
    • New Caledonian Rail, Gallirallus lafresnayanus (New Caledonia, Melanesia, c.1990?)
    Officially classified as critically endangered, the last records were in 1984 and it seems that all available habitat is overrun by feral pigs and dogs which prey on this bird.
  • Wake Island Rail, Gallirallus wakensis (Wake Island, Micronesia, 1945)
  • Tahitian Red-billed Rail, Gallirallus pacificus (Tahiti, Society Islands, late 18th - 19th century)
  • Dieffenbach's Rail, Gallirallus dieffenbachii (Chatham Islands, SW Pacific, mid-19th century)
  • Sharpe's Rail, Gallirallus sharpei (Indonesia?, 20th century?)
    • A bird known from a single skin of unknown origin. A reseach project has been proposed to shed light on its relationships and possible place of origin.
  • Chatham Rail, Cabalus modestus (Chatham Islands, SW Pacific, c.1900)
  • Réunion Rail, Dryolimnas augusti (Réunion, Mascarenes, late 17th century)
  • Red-throated Wood-rail, Aramides gutturalis (Peru, 20th century?)
    • Usually considered a badly prepared specimen of the Grey-necked Wood Rail, the single known individual of this bird may prove a distinct species though.
  • Ascension Island Rail, Mundia elpenor (Ascension, Island, Atlantic, late 17th century) - formerly Atlantisia
    • Known only from paintings and descriptions; taxonomic status uncertain as the material is often believed to refer to the extant Spotless Crake.
  • Saint Helena Crake, Porzana astrictocarpus (Saint Helena, Atlantic, early 16th century)
  • Laysan Rail, Porzana palmeri (Laysan Island, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1943)
  • Hawaiian Rail, Porzana sandwichensis (Big Island, Hawaiʻian Islands, c.1890)
  • Kosrae Island Crake, Porzana monasa (Kosrae, Carolines, c. mid-late 19th century)
  • Miller's Crake, Porzana nigra (Tahiti, Society Islands, c.1800)
  • Saint Helena Swamphen, Aphanocrex podarces (Saint Helena, Atlantic, 16th century) - formerly Atlantisia
  • Réunion Swamphen or Oiseau bleu, Porphyrio coerulescens (Réunion, Mascarenes, 18th century)
    • Known only from descriptions. Former existence of a Porphyrio on Réunion is fairly certain, but not proven to date.
  • New Caledonian Swamphen, Porphyrio kukwiedei from New Caledonia, Melanesia, may have survived into historic times. The native name n'dino is thought to refer to this bird.
  • Lord Howe Swamphen, Porphyrio albus (Lord Howe Island, SW Pacific, early 19th century)
  • Marquesan Swamphen, Porphyrio paepae (Hiva Oa, Marquesas)
    • May have survived into the 19th century. In the lower right corner of Paul Gauguin's 1902 painting Le Sorcier d'Hiva Oa ou le Marquisien à la cape rouge there is a bird which reminds of native descriptions of P. paepae.
  • North Island Takahē, Porphyrio mantelli from North Island, New Zealand, may have survived into the 19th century.
  • Samoan Wood Rail, Gallinula pacifica (Savai'i, Samoa, c.1870s?)
    • Probably better placed in the genus Pareudiastes, unconfirmed reports from the late 20th century suggest it still survives in small numbers, and therefore it is officially classified as critically endangered.
  • Makira Wood Rail, Gallinula silvestris (Makira, Solomon Islands, mid-20th century?)
    • Only known from a single specimen, this rail is probably better placed in its own genus, Edithornis. There are some unconfirmed recent records that suggest it still survives, thus, it is officially classified as critically endangered.
  • Tristan Moorhen, Gallinula nesiotis (Tristan da Cunha, Atlantic, late 19th century)
  • Mascarene Coot, Fulica newtoni (Mauritius and Réunion, Mascarenes, c.1700)
  • Rallidae gen. et sp. indet.
    • Unknown rail from Amsterdam Island, one specimen found but not recovered. Extinct by 1800.
  • "Leguat's Giant" or géant, a hypothetical giant rail from the Mascarenes, is based on his descriptions of flamingos, as Leguat was not familiar with their French name flamand or thought that it referred to other birds (it was in his time sometimes used for spoonbills, for example).

    • Shorebirds, gulls and auks.
    Officially classified as critically endangered, but as this conspicuous bird has not been recorded since 1940, it is almost certainly extinct.
  • Tahitian Sandpiper, Prosobonia leucoptera (Tahiti, Society Islands, 19th century)
  • White-winged Sandpiper, Prosobonia ellisi (Moorea, Society Islands, 19th century)
  • Eskimo Curlew, Numenius borealis (Northern North America, late 20th century?)
    • May still exist; officially classified as critically endangered, possibly extinct.
  • Slender-billed Curlew, Numenius tenuirostris (Western Siberia, early 2000s?)
    • May still exist; officially classified as critically endangered. Last seen in 1999 following several decades of increasing rarity.
  • Great Auk, Pinguinus impennis (North Atlantic, c.1844)
  • Canarian Black Oystercatcher, Haematopus meadewaldoi (Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, Canary Islands, early 20th century)

    • Pigeons, doves and dodos.
    • Saint Helena Flightless Pigeon, Dysmoropelia dekarchiskos, possibly survived into the Modern Era.
    • Passenger Pigeon, Ectopistes migratorius (Eastern North America, 1914)
    The passenger pigeon was once probably the most common bird in the world, a single swarm numbering up to several billion birds. It was hunted close to extinction for food and sport in the late 19th century. The last individual died in the Cincinnati Zoo in 1914.
  • The Silvery Pigeon, Columba argentina, has not been reliably observed since 1931 and may be extinct. It is difficult to distinguish from the common Pied Imperial Pigeon, however.
  • Bonin Wood-pigeon, Columba versicolor (Nakodo-jima and Chichi-jima, Ogasawara Islands, c.1890)
  • Ryukyu Wood-pigeon, Columba jouyi (Okinawa and Daito Islands, Northwest Pacific, late 1930s)
  • Réunion Pink Pigeon, Streptopelia duboisi (Réunion, Mascarenes, c.1700)
    • There seems to have been at least another species of pigeon on Réunion (probably an Alectroenas), but bones have not yet been found. It disappeared at the same time. Its generic allocation is not fully resolved.
  • Rodrigues Turtle Dove, Streptopelia rodericana (Rodrigues, Mascarenes, before 1690?)
    • A possible subspecies of the Madagascar Turtle Dove, this seems not to be the bird observed by Leguat. Introduced rats might have killed it off in the late 17th century. Its generic allocation is not fully resolved.
  • Liverpool Pigeon, "Caloenas" maculata
    • Also known as the Spotted Green Pigeon, the only specimen has been in Liverpool Museum since 1851, and was probably collected on a Pacific island for Edward Stanley, 13th Earl of Derby. It has been suggested that this bird came from Tahiti based on native lore about a somewhat similar extinct bird called titi, but this has not been verified.
  • Sulu Bleeding-heart, Gallicolumba menagei (Tawitawi, Philippines, late 1990s?)
    • Officially listed as critically endangered. Only known from 2 specimens taken in 1891, there have been a number of unconfirmed reports from all over the Sulu Archipelago in 1995. However, these reports stated that the bird had suddenly undergone a massive decline, and by now, habitat destruction is almost complete. If not extinct, this species is very rare, but the ongoing civil war prevents comprehensive surveys.
  • Norfolk Island Ground Dove, Gallicolumba norfolciensis (Norfolk Island, Southwest Pacific, c.1800)
  • Tanna Ground Dove, Gallicolumba ferruginea (Tanna, Vanuatu, late 18th-19th century)
    • Only known from descriptions of 2 now-lost specimens.
  • Thick-billed Ground Dove, Gallicolumba salamonis (Makira and Ramos, Solomon Islands, mid-20th century?)
    • Last recorded in 1927, only 2 specimens exist. Declared extinct in 2005.
  • Choiseul Crested Pigeon, Microgoura meeki (Choiseul, Solomon Islands, early 20th century)
  • Marquesas Fruit Pigeon, Ptilinopus mercierii (Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa, Marquesas, mid-20th century)
    • Two subspecies, the little-known P. m. mercierii of Nuku Hiva (extinct mid-late 19th century) and P. m. tristrami of Hiva Oa.
  • Negros Fruit Dove, Ptilinopus arcanus (Negros, Philippines, late 20th century?)
    • Known only from one specimen taken at the only documented sighting in 1953, the validity of this species has been questioned, but no good alternative to distinct species status has been proposed. Officially critically endangered, it might occur on Panay, but no survey has located it. One possible record in 2002 seems not to have been followed up.
  • Mauritius Blue Pigeon, Alectroenas nitidissima (Mauritius, Mascarenes, c.1830s)
  • Rodrigues Grey Pigeon, "Alectroenas" rodericana (Rodrigues, Mascarenes, mid-18th century)
    • A mysterious bird of unknown affinities, known from a few bones and, as it seems, two historical reports.
  • Dodo, Raphus cucullatus (Mauritius, Mascarenes, late 17th century)
    • Called Didus ineptus by Linnaeus. A meter-high flightless bird found on Mauritius. Its forest habitat was lost when Dutch settlers moved to the island and the dodo's nests were destroyed by the monkeys, pigs, and cats the Dutch brought with them. The last specimen was killed in 1681, only 80 years after the arrival of the new predators. See also dodo tree.
  • Rodrigues Solitaire, Pezophaps solitaria (Rodrigues, Mascarenes, c.1730)
  • For the "Réunion Solitaire", see Réunion Sacred Ibis.

    • Parrots.
    Mounted specimen of Conuropsis carolinensis, Museum Wiesbaden, Germany
    Enlarge
    Mounted specimen of Conuropsis carolinensis, Museum Wiesbaden, Germany

    Officially critically endangered, there have been no reliable reports of this bird since the early 20th century. It is, however, small and inconspicuous.
  • Norfolk Island Kākā, Nestor productus (Norfolk and Philip Islands, SW Pacific, 1851)
  • Society Parakeet, Cyanoramphus ulietanus (Raiatea, Society Islands, late 18th century)
  • Black-fronted Parakeet, Cyanoramphus zealandicus (Tahiti, Society Islands, c.1850)
  • Paradise Parrot, Psephotus pulcherrimus (Rockhampton area, Australia, 1927)
  • The Pacific Eclectus Parrot, Eclectus infectus, known from subfossil bones found on Tonga, Vanuatu, and possibly Fiji, may have survived until the 18th century: a bird which seems to be a male Eclectus parrot was drawn in a report on the Tongan island of Vava'u by the Malaspina expedition.
  • Seychelles Parakeet, Psittacula wardi (Seychelles, W Indian Ocean, 1883)
  • Newton's Parakeet, Psittacula exsul (Rodrigues, Mascarenes, c.1875)
  • Mascarene Parrot, Mascarinus mascarinus (Réunion and possibly Mauritius, Mascarenes, 1834?)
    • Last known individual was a captive bird which was alive before 1834.
  • Broad-billed Parrot, Lophopsittacus mauritianus (Mauritius, Mascarenes, 1680?)
    • May have survived to the late 18th century. A smaller related form described as Mauritius Grey Parrot (Lophopsittacus bensoni) may be the female of L. mauritianus.
  • Rodrigues Parrot, Necropsittacus rodericanus (Rodrigues, Mascarenes, late 18th century)
    • The species N. francicus is fictional, N. borbonicus most likely so.
  • Glaucous Macaw, Anodorhynchus glaucus (N Argentina, early 20th century)
    • Officially critically endangered due to persistent rumours of wild birds, but probably extinct.
  • Cuban Red Macaw, Ara tricolor (Cuba, West Indies, late 19th century)
    • A number of related species have been described from the West Indies, but are not based on good evidence. Several prehistoric forms are now known to have existed in the region, however.
  • Carolina Parakeet, Conuropsis carolinensis (SE North America, c.1930?)
    • Although the date of the last captive bird's death in the Cincinnati Zoo, 1918, is generally given as extinction date, there are convincing reports of some wild populations persisting until later. 2 subspecies, C. c. carolinensis (east and south of the Appalachian range - extinct 1918 or c.1930) and C. c. ludovicianus (Louisiana Parakeet, west of the Appalachian range - extinct early 1910s).
  • Guadeloupe Parakeet, Aratinga labati (Guadeloupe, West Indies, late 18th century)
    • Only known from descriptions, the former existence of this bird is likely for biogeographic reasons and because details as described cannot be referred to known species.
  • Sinú Parakeet, Pyrrhura subandina (Colombia, mid-20th century?)
    • Recently recognized as a distinct species, this bird has a very restricted distribution and was last reliably recorded in 1940. It was not found in 2004 and seems to be extinct.
  • Martinique Amazon, Amazona martinica (Martinique, West Indies, mid-18th century)
  • Guadeloupe Amazon, Amazona violacea (Guadeloupe, West Indies, mid-18th century)
    • The extinct amazon parrots were originally described after travelers' descriptions. Both are nowadays considered valid extinct species closely related to the Imperial Parrot.

    Cuckoos.

    Strigiformes

    Owls.
    Known only from prehistoric bones, but might still survive.
  • Laughing Owl, Sceloglaux albifacies (New Zealand, 1914?)
    • Two subspecies, S. a. albifacies (South Island and Stewart Island, extinct 1914? - circumstantial evidence suggests small remnants survived until the mid-20th century) and S. a. rufifacies (North Island, extinct c.1870s).
  • The Puerto Rican Barn Owl, Tyto cavatica, known from prehistoric remains found in caves of Puerto Rico, West Indies, may still have existed in 1912 given reports of the presence of cave-roosting owls.

    • Nightjars and allies.
    • Jamaican Parauque, Siphonorhis americana (Jamaica, West Indies, late 19th century
    Reports of unidentifiable nightjars in habitat appropriate for S. americanus suggest that this cryptic species may still exist. Research into this possibility is currently underway; pending further information, it is classified as critically endangered, possibly extinct.
  • Cuban Parauque, Siphonorhis daiquiri (Cuba, West Indies)
    • Described from subfossil bones in 1985. There are persistent rumors that this bird, which was never seen alive by scientists, may still survive. Compare Puerto Rican Nightjar.
  • Vaurie's Nightjar, Caprimulgus centralasicus
    • Only known from a single 1929 specimen from Xinjiang, China. It has never been found again, and it is quite possibly invalid as it has not yet been compared to the similar subspecies of the European Nightjar, C. europaeus plumipes, which occurs at the locality where C. centralasicus was found.

    Swifts and hummingbirds.
    • Coppery Thorntail, Discosura letitiae (Bolivia?)
    Known only from 3 trade specimens of unknown origin. Might still exist.
  • Brace's Emerald, Chlorostilbon bracei (New Providence, Bahamas, late 19th century)
  • Gould's Emerald, Chlorostilbon elegans (Jamaica or northern Bahamas, West Indies, late 19th century)
  • Alfaro's Hummingbird, Saucerottia alfaroana (Costa Rica, c.1900)
  • Bogota Sunangel, Heliangelus zusii (Colombia?)
    • A mysterious bird known only from a single specimen of unknown origin. Might be a hybrid (although the specimen is very distinct) or might still exist.
  • Turquoise-throated Puffleg, Eriocnemis godini (Ecuador, 20th century?)
    • Officially classified as critically endangered, possibly extinct. Known only from 6 pre-1900 specimens, the habitat at the only known site where it occurred has been destroyed. However, the bird's distribution remains unresolved.

    Kingfishers and related birds.
    This was probably a sub-species of the Micronesian Kingfisher Todiramphus cinnamomina. Only seen once by scientists, in 1887; the specimen taken is somewhat damaged, making identification by other than molecular analysis difficult.
  • Giant Hoopoe, Upupa antaois (Saint Helena, Atlantic, early 16th century)

    • Woodpeckers and related birds.
    • Caatinga woodpecker, Celeus obrieni (Western Piauí, Brazil, mid-20th century)
    This bird is known from a single specimen taken in 1926 and was long believed to be a subspecies of the Rufous-headed Woodpecker. As it was confined to caatinga habitat, which has been largely destroyed where the bird was once found, it is most likely extinct.
  • Imperial Woodpecker, Campephilus imperialis (Mexico, late 20th century)
    • This 60-centimeter-long woodpecker is officially listed as critically endangered, possibly extinct. Occasional unconfirmed reports come up, the most recent in late 2005.
  • There is currently a major debate on whether the North American Ivory-billed Woodpecker (Campephilus principalis principalis) was indeed rediscovered in the White River National Wildlife Refuge of Arkansas in 2004. The Cuban Ivory-billed Woodpecker (Campephilus principalis bairdii) was last seen in 1987 and is generally considered extinct, but there are a few patches of habitat not yet surveyed.

    • Perching birds.

    Formicariidae - Antpittas and antthrushes

    • Táchira Antpitta, Grallaria chthonia (Venezuela, late 20th century?)
    Officially critically endangered, this species has not been recorded since 1956 and although some habitat still exists, it was not found in dedicated searches in the 1990s.
    Acanthisittidae - New Zealand "wrens"
    3 subspecies: X. l. stokesi - North Island, extinct 1955; X. l. longipes - South Island, extinct 1968; X. l. variabilis - Stewart Island, extinct 1972.
    Meliphagidae - Honeyeaters and chats
    • Kioea, Chaetoptila angustipluma (Big Island, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1860s)
    • Hawaiʻi ʻOʻo, Moho nobilis (Big Island, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1930s)
    • Oʻahu ʻOʻo, Moho apicalis (Oʻahu, Hawaiʻian Islands, mid-19th century)
    • Molokaʻi ʻOʻo, Moho bishopi (Molokaʻi and probably Maui, Hawaiʻian Islands, c.1910 or 1980s)
    • Kauaʻi ʻOʻo, Moho braccatus (Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1987)
    • Chatham Island Bellbird, Anthornis melanocephala (Chatham Islands, Southwest Pacific, c.1910)
    Pardalotidae - Pardalotes, scrubwrens, thornbills, and gerygones
    • Lord Howe Gerygone, Gerygone insularis (Lord Howe Island, Southwest Pacific, c.1930)
    Pachycephalidae - Whistlers, shrike-thrushes, pitohuis and allies
    • Mangarevan Whistler, ?Pachycephala gambierana (Mangareva, Gambier Islands, late 19th century?)
    A mysterious bird of which no specimen exists today. It was initially described as a shrike, then classified as an Eopsalteria "robin", and may actually be an Acrocephalus flycatcher.
    Dicruridae - Monarch flycatchers and allies
    • Maupiti Monarch, Pomarea pomarea (Maupiti, Society Islands, mid-19th century)
    • Eiao Monarch, Pomarea fluxa (Eiao, Marquesas, late 1970s)
    Previously considered a subspecies of the Iphis Monarch, this is an early offspring of the Marquesan stock.
  • Nuku Hiva Monarch, Pomarea nukuhivae (Nuku Hiva, Marquesas, mid-late 20th century)
    • Previously considered a subspecies of the Marquesas Monarch, this is another early offspring of the Marquesan stock.
  • Ua Pou Monarch, Pomarea mira (Ua Pou, Marquesas, c.1986)
    • Previously considered another subspecies of the Marquesas Monarch, this was a distinct species most closely related to that bird and the Fatuhiva Monarch.
  • Guam Flycatcher, Myiagra freycineti (Guam, Marianas, 1983)
    • Corvidae - Crows, ravens, magpies and jays
    • Banggai Crow, Corvus unicolor (Banggai or Peleng Island, Indonesia, 20th century?)
    Officially critically endangered, it is known only from two specimens taken on an unspecified island at some date in the late 19th century, probably in 1884 or 1885. Possible sightings in 1981 and 1991, but no unequivocal recent records and amount of habitat destruction suggest this species is extinct.
    Malaconotidae - Bushshrikes
    Only found once, in 1988, this bird is officially critically endangered, as it may still exist. However, it was never found again despite being looked for, and there seems to be much habitat degradation. Owing to the political situation in Somalia, further research has not been possible.
    Vangidae - Vangas
    • Short-toed Nuthatch Vanga, Hypositta perdita (Madagascar, mid-20th century?)
    An enigmatic bird known only from 2 recently fledged juveniles collected in 1931, it was not found during a thorough search in 1996.
    †Turnagridae - Piopio
    Male (front) and female (back) Huia
    Enlarge
    Male (front) and female (back) Huia

    Callaeidae - New Zealand wattlebirds

    Estrildidae - Estrildid finches (waxbills, munias, etc)
    • Black-lored Waxbill, Estrilda nigriloris (D.R. Congo, Africa, late 20th century?)
    An enigmatic waxbill not seen since 1950; since part of its habitat is in Upemba National Park it may survive.
    Parulidae - New World warblers
    Officially critically endangered, possibly extinct
  • Semper's Warbler, Leucopeza semperi (Saint Lucia, Caribbean, 1970s)
    • Icteridae - Grackles
    • Slender-billed Grackle, Quiscalus palustris (Mexico, 1910)
    Fringillidae - True finches Drepanididae - Hawaiian honeycreepers
    • ʻOʻu, Psittirostra psittacea (Hawaiʻian Islands, c.2000?)
    Officially classified as critically endangered, possibly extinct., this was once the most widespread species of Hawaiian honeycreeper. It has not been reliably recorded since 1987 or 1989.
  • Lanaʻi Hookbill, Dysmorodrepanis munroi (Lanaʻi, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1918)
  • The Kauaʻi Palila, Loxioides kikuichi (Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻian Islands), possibly survived to the early 18th century.
  • Lesser Koa Finch, Rhodacanthus flaviceps (Big Island, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1891)
  • Greater Koa Finch, Rhodacanthus palmeri (Big Island, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1896)
  • Kona Grosbeak Finch, Psittirostra kona (Big Island, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1894)
  • Greater Amakihi, Hemignathus sagittirostris (Big Island, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1901)
  • Hawaiʻi ʻAkialoa, Akialoa obscurus (Big Island, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1940)
  • Maui Nui ʻAkialoa, Akialoa lanaiensis (Lanaʻi and prehistorically probably Maui and Molokaʻi, Hawaiʻian Islands 1892)
  • Oʻahu ʻAkialoa, Akialoa ellisianus (Oʻahu, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1940)
  • Kauaʻi ʻAkialoa, Akialoa stejnegeri (Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1969)
  • Nukupuʻu, Hemignathus lucidus (Hawaiʻian Islands, c.2000?)
    • The subspecies from Oʻahu (H. l. lucidus) is extinct since the late 19th century, that of Kauaʻi (H. l. hanapepe) most probably since the late 1990s and that of Maui (H. l. affinis) has not been reliably seen since 1995. It is currently classified as critically endangered, possibly extinct.
  • Kakawahie, Paroreomyza flammea (Molokaʻi, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1963)
  • Oʻahu ʻAlauahio, Paroreomyza maculata (Oʻahu, Hawaiʻian Islands, early 1990s?)
    • Officially classified as critically endangered, possibly extinct. Last reliable record was in 1985, with an unconfirmed sighting in 1990.
  • ʻUla-ʻai-hawane, Ciridops anna (Big Island, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1892 or 1937)
  • Black Mamo, Drepanis funerea (Molokaʻi, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1907)
  • Hawaiʻi Mamo, Drepanis pacifica (Big Island, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1898)
  • Poʻo-uli, Melamprosops phaeosoma (Maui, Hawaiʻian Islands, 2004?)
    • The most recent extinction on this list. What was most likely the last known bird has died in captivity on 28 November 2004.
    Emberizidae - Buntings and American sparrow
    • Hooded Seedeater, Sporophila melanops (Brazil, 20th century?)
    Officially classified as critically endangered, possibly extinct. It is known only from a single male collected in 1823, and has variously been considered an aberrant Yellow-bellied Seedeater or a hybrid.
    Hirundinidae - Swallows and martins
    • White-eyed River Martin, Pseudochelidon sirintarae (Thailand, late 1980s?)
    Officially critically endangered, this enigmatic species is only known from migrating birds and it was last seen in 1986 at its former roost site.
    Sylviidae - Old World warblers
    A mysterious bird known only from a 1867 specimen that was long considered invalid, but has recently been determined to be a very distinct species. It may still exist and simply have been overlooked due to the former fact.
  • Chatham Islands Fernbird, Megalurus rufescens (Chatham Islands, New Zealand, c.1900)
    • Cisticolidae - Cisticolas and allies
    • Tana River Cisticola, Cisticola restrictus (Kenya, 1970s?)
    A mysterious bird, found in the Tana River basin in small numbers at various dates, but not anymore since 1972. Probably invalid, based on aberrant or hybrid specimens.
    Zosteropidae - White-eyes
    • Seychelles White-eye, Zosterops semiflava (Marianne, Seychelles, early 20th century)
    Sometimes considered a subspecies of the Mayotte White-eye. Possibly occurred on other islands in the Seychelles as well.
  • Lord Howe White-eye, Zosterops strenua (Lord Howe Island, Southwest Pacific, c.1918)
    • Muscicapidae - Flycatchers
    • Rueck's Blue Flycatcher, Cyornis ruckii (Malaysia or Indochina, 20th century?)
    An enigmatic bird known from 2 or 4 possibly migrant specimens, last recorded in 1918. Might exist in NE Indochina and might be a subspeices of the Hainan Blue Flycatcher.
    Turdidae - Thrushes and allies
    • Grand Cayman Thrush, Turdus ravidus (Grand Cayman, West Indies, late 1940s)
    • Bay "Thrush", "Turdus" ulietensis (Raiatea, Society Islands, between 1774 and 1850)
    A completely mysterious bird from Raiatea, now only known from a painting and some descriptions of a (now lost) specimen. Its taxonomic position is unresolvable, although for biogeographic reasons and because of the surviving description, it has been suggested to have been a honeyeater. However, with the discovery of fossils of the prehistorically extinct starling Aplonis diluvialis on neighboring Huahine, it seems more likely that this bird also belonged into this genus.
  • Bonin Thrush, Zoothera terrestris (Chichi-jima, Bonin Islands, c.1830s)
  • ʻĀmaui, Myadestes woahensis (Oʻahu, Hawaiʻian Islands, mid-19th century)
  • Kāmaʻo, Myadestes myadestinus (Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1990s)
  • Olomaʻo, Myadestes lanaiensis (Hawaiʻian Islands, 1980s?)
    • Officially critically endangered, possibly extinct because a possible location on Molokaʻi remains unsurveyed. Two subspecies are known from Lanaʻi (M. l. lanaiensis, extinct early 1930s), Molokaʻi (M. l. rutha, extinct 1980s?) and a possible third subspecies from Maui (extinct before late 19th century).
    Sturnidae - Starlings
    • Kosrae Island Starling, Aplonis corvina (Kosrae, Carolines, mid-19th century)
    • Mysterious Starling, Aplonis mavornata (Mauke, Cook Islands, after 1825)
    • Tasman Starling, Aplonis fusca (Norfolk Island and Lord Howe Island, Southwest Pacific, c.1923)
    Two subspecies, A. f. fusca - Norfolk Island Starling (extinct c.1923); A. fuscus hulliana - Lord Howe Starling (extinct c.1919).
  • Bourbon Crested Starling, Fregilupus varius (Réunion, Mascarenes, 1850s)
  • Rodrigues Starling, Necropsar rodericanus (Rodrigues, Mascarenes, late 18th century?)
    • The bird variously described as Testudophaga bicolor, Necropsar leguati or Orphanopsar leguati which was considered to be identical with N. rodericanus (which is only known from fossils) was finally resolved to be based on a misidentified partially albinistic specimen of the Martinique Trembler (Cinclocerthia gutturalis) (Olson et al., Bull. B.O.C. 125:31).

    (Probably) Extinct subspecies of birds

    Extinction of subspecies is a subject very dependent on guesswork. National and international conservation projects and research publications such as redlists usually focus on species as a whole. Reliable information on the status of threatened subspecies usually has to be assembled piecemeal from published observations such as regional checklists. Therefore, the following listing contains a high proportion of taxa that may just as well still exist, but are listed here due to any combination of absence of recent records, a known threat such as habitat destruction, or an observed decline.

    The Ostrich and related ratites.

    Ducks, geese and swans.
    • Rennell Island Teal, Anas gibberifrons remissa (Rennell, Solomon Islands, c.1959)
    A subspecies of the Sunda Teal which disappeared due to predation on young birds by the introduced tilapia Oreochromis mossambicus.
  • Niceforo's Pintail, Anas georgica niceforoi (Colombia, 1950s) - Yellow-billed Pintail subspecies
  • Borrero's Cinnamon Teal, Anas cyanoptera borreroi (Colombia, late 20th century?)
    • A subspecies of the Cinnamon Teal known only from a restricted area in the Cordillera Occidental of Colombia. It is either very rare or already extinct.

    Quails and relatives.
    • Italian Grey Partridge, Perdix perdix italica (Italy, c.1990)
    A subspecies of the Grey Partridge whose validity has been questioned; the last purebred individuals disappeared during the late 1980s due to hybridization with introduced birds.
  • Heath Hen, Tympanuchus cupido cupido, (New England, North America, 1937)
    • A subspecies of the Greater Prairie-Chicken or possibly a distinct species.
  • New Mexico Sharp-tailed Grouse, Tympanuchus phasianellus hueyi (New Mexico, North America, 1954) - Sharp-tailed Grouse subspecies
  • Moroccan Guineafowl, Numida meleagris sabyi (Morocco, mid-20th century or early 1980s)
    • A subspecies of the Helmeted Guineafowl. Reportedly still kept in captivity in Morocco in late 1990s. Possibly extinct by 1950, the 3 1970s records may refer to feral domestic hybrids.

    Cormorants and related birds.
    • Tasman Booby, Sula dactylatra tasmani fide van Tets et al., 1988 (Lord Howe and Norfolk Islands, SW Pacific, c.1790?)
    This is often regarded as a distinct species, but at best it is a subspecies of the Masked Booby. Probably identical to the extant Lord Howe Island population described as S. d. fullagari, which would in this case be named S. d. tasmani fide Holdaway & Anderson, 2001.

    Herons and related birds.
    • Bonin Nankeen Night Heron, Nycticorax caledonicus crassirostris (Nakondo-jima and Chichi-jima, Ogasawara Islands, c.1890) - Nankeen Night Heron subspecies
    • Principe Olive Ibis, Bostrychia olivacea rothschildi (Principe, Gulf of Guinea, 1900s) - Olive Ibis subspecies

    Birds of prey.
    Considered either a subspecies of the Red Kite, a distinct species, the validity of this taxon has recently being questioned based on molecular analysis. However, hybridization and a confusing molecular phylogeny of Red Kite populations coupled with the distinct phenotype of the Cape Verde birds suggest that the taxonomic status of this form is far from resolved.
  • Ndzouani Goshawk, Accipiter francesii pusillus
    • This subspecies of Frances' Goshawk from Ndzouani (Anjouan), Comoros, was last seen in 1978; given that few habitat remains, it is probably extinct.
  • Car Nicobar Sparrowhawk, Accipiter butleri butleri (Car Nicobar, Nicobar Islands, 20th century?)
    • The nominate subspecies of the Nicobar Sparrowhawk - which is currently listed as Vulnerable - is possibly extinct. It was last reliably recorded in 1901 and despite searches, has not been sighted after an unconfirmed record in 1977.
  • Korean Sea Eagle, Haliaeetus pelagicus niger (Korea, 1950s) - Steller's Sea Eagle subspecies

    • Rails and allies.
    • Goldman's Yellow Rail, Coturnicops noveboracensis goldmani (Mexico, late 1960s) - Yellow Rail subspecies
    • Macquarie Island Buff-banded Rail, Gallirallus philippensis macquariensis (Macquarie Islands, Southwest Pacific, 1880s) - Buff-banded Rail subspecies
    • Western Australian Lewin's Rail, Lewinia pectoralis cleleandi (SW Australia, late 1930s) - Lewin's Rail subspecies
    • Assumption White-throated Rail, Dryolimnas cuvieri abbotti (Assumption, Astove and Cosmoledo, Aldabra Islands, early 20th century) - White-throated Rail subspecies
    • Jamaican Uniform Crake, Amaurolimnas concolor concolor (Jamaica, West Indies, 1890) - Uniform Crake nominate subspecies
    • Iwo Jima White-browed Crake, Porzana cinerea brevipes (Iwo Jima and Minami Iōjima, Ogasawara Islands, early 20th century)
    A subspecies of the White-browed Crake that is often considered synonymous with the nominate.
  • Moroccan Bustard, Ardeotis arabs lynesi (Morocco, 1990s)
    • A subspecies of the Arabian Bustard. Last observed in 1993 at Lac Merzouga/Lac Tamezguidat.
  • Luzon Sarus Crane, Grus antigone luzonica (Luzon, Philippines, late 1960s)
    • A subspecies of the Sarus Crane which is not always accepted as valid, probably mainly because the specimens have never been thoroughly studies since the subspecies' description.

    Shorebirds, gulls and auks.

    Pteroclidiformes

    Sandgrouse.
    Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse subspecies, may have survived until early 1980s.

    Pigeons, doves and dodos.
    • Madeiran Wood Pigeon, Columba palumbus maderensis (Madeira, East Atlantic, early 20th century) - Wood Pigeon subspecies
    • Ogasawara Japanese Wood-pigeon, Columba janthina nitens (Ogasawara Islands, Northwest Pacific, 1980s) - Japanese Wood-pigeon subspecies
    • Lord Howe Metallic Pigeon, Columba vitiensis godmanae (Lord Howe Island, Southwest Pacific, 1853)- Metallic Pigeon subspecies
    • Tongan Metallic Pigeon, Columba vitiensis ssp. (Vava'u, Tonga, late 18th century?)
    This subspecies of the Metallic Pigeon is only known from a footnote in John Latham's "General History of Birds", and seems to have died out some time before 1800; possibly, the location is erroneous and the note really refers to the extant population of Fiji.
  • Catanduanes Bleeding-heart, Gallicolumba luzonica rubiventris (Catanduanes, Philippines, late 20th century?)
    • A subspecies of the Luzon Bleeding-heart known from a single specimen collected in 1971. It is either near extinction or already extinct.
  • Basilan Bleeding-heart, Gallicolumba crinigera bartletti (Basilan, Philippines, mid-20th century?)
    • A subspecies of the Mindanao Bleeding-heart, it was last reported in 1925 and given the massive habitat destruction is likely extinct.
  • Vella Lavella Ground Dove, Gallicolumba jobiensis chalconota (Vella Lavella, Makira and Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, late 20th century?)
    • A subspecies of the White-bibbed Ground Dove or possibly a distinct species. Known from only 4 specimens, there are no recent records and the local population report it has disappeared.
  • White-headed Polynesian Ground-dove, Gallicolumba erythroptera albicollis (Central Tuamotu Islands, 20th century)
    • The Central Tuamotu subspecies of the Polynesian Ground-dove, often referred to as G. e. pectoralis, disappeared at an undetermined date, but might still exist on some unsurveyed atolls. The identity of Northern Tuamotu populations, possibly still extant, is undetermined.
  • Ebon Purple-capped Fruit Dove, Ptilinopus porphyraceus marshallianus (Ebon, Marshall Islands?, late 19th century?)
    • Known from a single specimen collected in 1859, it is not certain whether this bird actually occurred on Ebon. All that can be said is that this subspecies is no longer found anywhere.
  • Norfolk Island Kererū, Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae spadicea (Norfolk Island, Southwest Pacific, 1830s)
    • A subspecies of the Kererū or New Zealand Pigeon. Similar birds were reported from Lord Howe Island, and bones have been found on Raoul in the Kermadec Islands; these seem to represent two more extinct subspecies but are undescribed to date.

    Parrots.
    • Sangir Red and Blue Lory, Eos histrio histrio (Sangir Archipelago, Indonesia, c.1997)
    The nominate subspecies of the Red and Blue Lory was hybridized out of existence by escaped trade individuals of the subspecies talautensis, the last purebred individuals disappearing in the 1990s or even much earlier.
  • Challenger's Lory, Eos histrio challengeri (Nenusa Islands, Talaud Archipelago, early 20th century?)
    • A supposed subspecies of the Red and Blue Lory, but probably invalid.
  • Macquarie Island Red-crowned Parakeet, Cyanoramphus erythrotis erythrotis (Macquarie Islands, SW Pacific, between 1890 and 1913) - Subantarctic Red-crowned Parakeet nominate subspecies
  • Lord Howe Island Red-fronted Parakeet, Cyanoramphus novaezelandiae subflavescens (Lord Howe Island, SW Pacific, c.1870) - Red-crowned Parakeet subspecies
  • Westerman's Eclectus Parrot, Eclectus roratus westermani (Indonesia, 20th century?)
    • Known only from 16 captive birds specimens and last recorded in 1899, this enigmatic subspecies of the Eclectus Parrot is often considered an aviary hybrid. However, it may has well have occurred on islands at the northern or eastern end of the Banda Sea, becoming extinct some time in the 20th century - or might even still exist in a little-surveyed location.
  • Réunion Parakeet, Psittacula eques eques (Réunion, Mascarenes, mid-18th century)
    • Known only from a painting and descriptions; if it is accepted as valid, it would become the nominate subspecies of the Echo Parakeet, extant on Mauritius, which would then have to be called P. eques echo.
  • Siquijor Colasisi, Loriculus philippensis siquijorensis (Siquijor, Philippines, 1990s)
    • A subspecies of the Colasisi or Philippine Hanging Parrot, either very rare or already extinct.
  • Puerto Rican Parakeet, Aratinga chloroptera maugei (Mona and possibly Puerto Rico, West Indies, 1890s)
    • A weakly differentiated subspecies of the Hispaniolan Parakeet.
  • Culebra Island Parrot, Amazona vittata gracilipes (Culebra, West Indies, 1900s)
    • A weakly differentiated subspecies of the Puerto Rican Parrot which is itself highly endangered.

    Cuckoos.
    • Cabo San Lucas Groove-billed Ani, Crotophaga sulcirostris pallidula (Mexico, c.1940)
    A weakly differentiated and probably invalid subspecies of the Groove-billed Ani

    Strigiformes

    Owls.
    A subspecies of the Reddish Scops Owl. Known from a single questionable specimen and may not be valid.
  • Virgin Islands Screech Owl, Otus nudipes newtoni
    • A subspecies of the Puerto Rican Screech Owl of somewhat doubtful validity which occurred on several of the Virgin Islands, West Indies. The last reliable records are in 1860; it was not found in thorough surveys in 1995.
  • Socorro Elf Owl, Micrathene whitneyi graysoni (Socorro, Revillagigedo Islands, c.1970)
    • A subspecies of the Elf Owl; the last specimen was taken in 1932, but there apparently still was a large population in 1958.
  • Antiguan Burrowing Owl, Athene cunicularia amaura (Antigua, St Kitts and Nevis, West Indies, c.1905) - Burrowing Owl subspecies
  • Bahaman Burrowing Owl, Athene cunicularia guadeloupensis (Guadeloupe and Marie-Galante, West Indies, c.1890) - Burrowing Owl subspecies
  • Lord Howe Island Morepork, Ninox novaeseelandiae albaria (Lord Howe Island, Southwest Pacific, 1950s) - Southern Boobook subspecies
  • Norfolk Island Morepork, Ninox novaeseelandiae undulata (Norfolk Island, Southwest Pacific, 1996)
    • Individuals of the nominate subspecies were introduced in a last-ditch effort to save the local owl population. There now exists a hybrid population of a few dozen birds; the last individual of N. n. undulata, a female named Miamiti died in 1996.
  • Cave-nesting Masked Owl, Tyto novaehollandiae troughtoni (Nullarbor Plain, Australia, 1960s)
    • Doubtfully distinct from nominate subspecies, but differed behaviorally.
  • Buru Masked Owl, Tyto sororcula cayelii (Buru, Indonesia, mid-20th century)
    • Subspecies of Lesser Masked Owl. Last seen in 1921; the identity of a similar bird found on Seram remains to be determined.
  • Peleng Masked Owl, Tyto rosenbergii pelengensis (Peleng, Banggai Islands, mid-20th century)
    • Subspecies of Sulawesi Owl or separate species. Possibly extant, but only specimen known taken in 1938 and no further records.
  • Samar Bay Owl, Phodilus badius riverae (Samar, Philippines, mid-20th century)
    • Subspecies of Oriental Bay Owl or possibly distinct species. Taxonomy doubtful but only specimen lost in 1945 bombing raid so validity cannot be verified; no population exists on Samar today.

    Nightjars and allies.
    • New Caledonian White-throated Eared-Nightjar, Eurostopodus mystacalis exsul (New Caledonia, Melanesia, mid-20th century)
    This distinct subspecies of the White-throated Eared-Nightjar is possibly a separate species. It was found only once; due to its cryptic habits, it possibly still exists, but this is now considered unlikely.

    Swifts and hummingbirds.
    • Alejandro Selkirk Firecrown, Sephanoides fernandensis leyboldi (Alejandro Selkirk Island, Juan Fernandez Islands, Southeast Pacific, 1908) - Juan Fernandez Firecrown subspecies
    • Luzon Whitehead's Swiftlet, Collocalia whiteheadi whiteheadi (Luzon, Philippines, 20th century?)
    The nominate subspecies of Whitehead's Swiftlet is only known from four specimens collected at Mount Data in 1895 and from the lack of further records and the massive habitat destruction, it is usually considered extinct. Given the size of the island, it might still exist though.

    Kingfishers and related birds.
    • Sangihe Dwarf-kingfisher, Ceyx fallax sangirensis (Sangihe, Indonesia, 1998?)
    This subspecies of the Sulawesi Kingfisher was last seen in 1997 but not during a thorough survey one year later; it is either close to extinction or already extinct. Sometimes it is said to occur on Talaud Islands also, but this is erroneous.
  • Mangareva Kingfisher, Todiramphus gambieri gambieri (Mangareva, Gambier Islands, late 19th century)
    • Only known from a single 1844 specimen, the nominate subspecies of the Tuamotu Kingfisher was not found anymore when it was next searched for in 1922.
  • Javan Blue-banded Kingfisher, Alcedo euryzona euryzona (Java, Indonesia, mid-20th century)
    • The nominate subspecies of the Blue-banded Kingfischer; the last specimen was taken in 1937 and the last unconfirmed records are from the 1950s.
  • Guadalcanal Little Kingfisher, Alcedo pusilla aolae (Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands) - Little Kingfisher subspecies
  • Malaita Variable Kingfisher, Ceyx lepidus malaitae (Malaita, Solomon Islands) - Variable Kingfisher subspecies
  • Sakarha Pygmy Kingfisher, Ispidina madagascariensis dilutus (Southwest Madagascar, late 20th century?)
    • This subspecies of the Madagascar Pygmy Kingfisher is only known from one specimen taken in 1974 in an area where most habitat had already been lost.
  • Ticao Tarictic Hornbill, Penelopides panini ticaensis (Ticao, Philippines, 1970s)
    • A subspecies of the Tarictic Hornbill of somewhat uncertain status - possibly a distinct species, possibly a color morph -; the last confirmed report was in 1971 and it became extinct shortly thereafter.

    Woodpeckers and related birds.
    • Northern White-mantled Barbet, Capito hypoleucus hypoleucus (Colombia, mid-20th century)
    The nominate subspecies of the White-mantled Barbet has not been seen since the late 1940s and its habitat has been almost completely destroyed.
  • Botero White-mantled Barbet, Capito hypoleucus carrikeri (Colombia, mid-20th century)
    • Another subspecies of the White-mantled Barbet, last seen in 1950.
  • Guadalupe Flicker, Colaptes cafer rufipileus (Guadalupe, East Pacific, c.1910)
    • A subspecies of the Red-shafted Flicker (or the Northern Flicker, as C. auratus rufipileus), it was last recorded in 1906 and not found anymore in 1922. Recently, vagrant birds of a mainland subspecies have begun recolonizing the island as the habitat improves after the removal of feral goats.
  • Javan Buff-rumped Woodpecker, Meiglyptes tristis tristis (Java, Indonesia, c.1920)
    • The nominate subspecies of the Buff-rumped Woodpecker became rare during the 19th century due to destruction of habitat. The last confirmed record was in 1880, and it obviously became extinct in the early 20th century.

    Perching birds.

    Tyrannidae - Tyrant flycatchers

    • Grenadan Euler's Flycatcher - Lathrotriccus euleri flaviventris (Grenada, West Indies, early 1950s)
    A subspecies of Euler's Flycatcher, formerly known as Empidonax euleri johnstonei.
    Pittidae - Pittas
    • Bougainville Black-faced Pitta, Pitta anerythra pallida (Bougainville, Solomon Islands, mid-20th century)
    A subspecies of the Black-faced Pitta. Once common on Bougainville, but not recorded since 1938.
  • Choiseul Black-faced Pitta, Pitta anerythra nigrifrons (Choiseul, Solomon Islands, late 20th century?)
    • Another subspecies of the Black-faced Pitta. Not found anymore during recent searches; doubtful records from nearby islands.
    Furnariidae - Ovenbirds
    • Peruvian Scale-throated Earthcreeper, Upucerthia dumetaria peruana (Peru, late 20th century?)
    A subspecies of the Scale-throated Earthcreeper, it is only known from 2 specimens taken in the early 1950s at Puno, Peru, and has never been found since. It might still exist, or have become extinct due to habitat destruction in the meantime.
    Pardalotidae - Pardalotes, scrubwrens, thornbills, and gerygones
    • Western Rufous Bristlebird, Dasyornis broadbenti littoralis (Australia, 20th century) - Rufous Bristlebird subspecies
    Cinclosomatidae - Whipbirds and allies
    • Mount Lofty Spotted Quail-thrush, Cinclosoma punctatum anachoreta (Australia, mid-1980s)
    A subspecies of the Spotted Quail-thrush, last recorded in 1984.
    Dicruridae - Monarch flycatchers and allies
    • Negros Celestial Monarch, Hypothymis coelestis rabori (Negros and possibly Sibuyan, Philippines, late 20th century?)
    A subspecies of the Celestial Monarch, not uncommon on Negros in 1959, but never recorded afterwards. A single Sibuyan specimen from a unspecified locality taken in the 19th century is the only record for this island.
  • Hiva Oa Monarch, Pomarea mendozae mendozae (Hiva Oa and Tahuata, Marquesas, late 1970s) - Marquesas Monarch nominate subspecies
  • Nendo Shrikebill, Clytorhynchus nigrogularis sanctaecrucis (Nendo, Santa Cruz Islands, mid-20th century?)
    • A subspecies of the Black-throated Shrikebill or more probably a distinct species that was only once found, in 1927. Due to lack of research it is not known whether this bird still exists; it was not found during the single thorough survey in recent times and it can be presumed to be affected by habitat destruction and typhoons.
  • Lord Howe Fantail, Rhipidura fuliginosa cervina (Lord Howe Island, Southwest Pacific, c.1925) - Grey Fantail subspecies
  • Guam Rufous Fantail, Rhipidura rufifrons uraniae (Guam, Marianas, 1984) - Rufous Fantail subspecies
    • Campephagidae - Cuckoo-shrikes and trillers
    • Cebu Bar-bellied Cuckoo-shrike, Coracina striata cebuensis (Cebu, Philippines, early 20th century) - Bar-bellied Cuckoo-shrike subspecies
    • Maros Cicadabird, Coracina tenuirostris edithae (Sulawesi, mid-20th century)
    A subspecies of the Cicadabird known from a single specimen collected in 1931; quite possibly just a vagrant individual.
  • Cebu Blackish Cuckoo-shrike, Coracina coerulescens altera (Cebu, Philippines, early 20th century) - Blackish Cuckoo-shrike subspecies
  • Norfolk Island Long-tailed Triller, Lalage leucopyga leucopyga (Norfolk Island, Southwest Pacific, 1942)
    • A subspecies of the Long-tailed Triller, possibly a distinct species.
    Oriolidae - Orioles and Figbird
    • Cebu Dark-throated Oriole, Oriolus xanthonotus assimilis (Cebu, Philippines, early 20th century) - Dark-throated Oriole subspecies
    Corvidae - Crows, ravens, magpies and jays
    • Pied Raven, Corvus corax varius morpha leucophaeus (Faroe Islands, 1948)
    A distinct local variety of the Icelandic subspecies of the Common Raven.
    Callaeidae - New Zealand wattlebirds
    The nominate subspecies of the Kōkako is usually considered extinct, as it has not been reliably recorded for decades. However, there are recent reports from Fiordland suggesting a population still exists.
    Cinclidae - Dippers
    A subspecies of the White-throated Dipper of questionable validity.
    Ploceidae - Weavers
    • Ruwet's Masked-Weaver, Ploceus reichardi ruweti (D.R. Congo, late 20th century?)
    A subspecies of the Tanzania Masked-weaver, formerly considered a distinct species. No recent information on its status, and it may be a hybrid.
    Estrildidae - Estrildid finches (waxbills, munias, etc)
    • Southern Star Finch, Neochmia ruficauda ruficauda (Australia, c.2000)
    A subspecies of the Star Finch; officially critically endangered but probably recently extinct. Not known to survive in captivity.
    Icteridae - Grackles
    • Grand Cayman Oriole, Icterus leucopteryx bairdi (Grand Cayman, West Indies, mid-20th century)
    A subspecies of the Jamaican Oriole, last reliably recorded in 1938.
    Fringillidae - True finches
    • San Benito House Finch, Carpodacus mexicanus mcgregori (San Benito, East Pacific, c.1940s) - House Finch subspecies
    Drepanididae - Hawaiian honeycreepers
    • Lanaʻi ʻAlauahio, Paroreomyza montana montana(Lanaʻi, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1937)
    A subspecies of the Maui ʻAlauahio (or properly Maui Nui ʻAlauahio).
  • Maui Akepa, Loxops coccineus ochraceus (Maui, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1988) - Akepa subspecies
  • Oʻahu Akepa, Loxops coccineus wolstenholmei (Oʻahu, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1990s) - Akepa subspecies
  • Laysan ʻApapane, Himatione sanguinea freethi (Laysan Island, Hawaiʻian Islands, 1923)
    • The last individuals of this subspecies of the ʻApapane, possibly a distinct species, disappeared in a sandstorm, probably on the night of April 23/April 24, 1923.
    Emberizidae - Buntings and American sparrows
    Dusky Seaside Sparrow
    Enlarge
    Dusky Seaside Sparrow

    • Saint Kitts Bullfinch, Loxigilla portoricensis grandis (Saint Kitts and prehistorically Barbuda, West Indies, 1930) - Puerto Rican Bullfinch subspecies
    • Dusky Seaside Sparrow, Ammodramus maritimus nigrescens (Florida, 1987) - Seaside Sparrow subspecies
    • Amak Song Sparrow, Melospiza melodia amaka, (Amak Island, Alaska, 1981)
    A subspecies of the Song Sparrow, sometimes included in the extant M. m. sanaka.
  • Santa Barbara Song Sparrow, Melospiza melodia graminea (Santa Barbara and San Clemente, Californian Channel Islands, c.1970)
    • Another subspecies of the Song Sparrow. Sometimes, all Channel Island populations are lumped into this taxon, which would then still be extant.
  • Guadalupe Spotted Towhee, Pipilo maculatus consobrinus (Guadalupe Island, East Pacific, c.1900) - Spotted Towhee subspecies
  • Darwin's Large Ground Finch, Geospiza magnirostris magnirostris (Floreana?, Galapagos Islands, 1957?)
    • The subspecies of the Large Ground Finch collected by Charles Darwin in 1835; he gave no precise locality. A similar bird was found in 1957, but no others have ever been seen.
    Mimidae - Mockingbirds and thrashers
    • Barbados Scaly-breasted Thrasher, Allenia fusca atlantica (Barbados, West Indies, c.1990) - Scaly-breasted Thrasher subspecies
    Troglodytidae - Wrens
    • San Benedicto Rock Wren, Salpinctes obsoletus exsul (San Benedicto, Revillagigedo Islands, 1952)
    A subspecies of the Rock Wren which became extinct around 9 AM, August 1, 1952, when its island habitat was devastated by a massive volcanic eruption.
  • Guadalupe Bewick's Wren, Thyromanes bewickii brevicauda (Guadalupe, East Pacific, 1900s) - Bewick's Wren subspecies
  • San Clemente Bewick's Wren, Thryomanes bewickii leucophrys (San Clemente, East Pacific, 1940s) - Bewick's Wren subspecies
  • Daito Winter Wren, Troglodytes troglodytes orii (Daito Islands, Northwest Pacific, c.1940)
    • A disputed Winter Wren subspecies; as it is known from a single specimen that may have been a vagrant individual, it is possibly invalid.
  • Guadeloupe House Wren, Troglodytes aedon guadeloupensis (Guadeloupe, Caribbean, after 1914)
    • A subspecies of the House Wren (or, if that species is split, the Southern House Wren, as T. musculus guadeloupensis).
  • Martinique House Wren, Troglodytes aedon martinicensis (Martinique, Caribbean, c.1890)
    • Another subspecies of the (Southern, as T. musculus martinicensis) House Wren.
    Paridae - Tits, chickadees and titmice
    • Daito Varied Tit, Sittiparus varius orii (Daito Islands, Northwest Pacific, c.1940) - Varied Tit subspecies
    Hirundinidae - Swallows and martins
    • Jamaican Golden Swallow, Tachycineta euchrysea euchrysea (Jamaica, West Indies, c.1990?)
    The nominate subspecies of the Golden Swallow, endemic to Jamaica. The last major roost-site was destroyed in 1987, and the last confirmed sighting was in 1989. May still exist in the Cockpit Country, but probably extinct.
    Regulidae - Kinglets
    • Guadalupe Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Regulus calendula obscurus (Guadalupe, East Pacific, 20th century?)
    A subspecies of the Ruby-crowned Kinglet that has not been found in recent times.
    Pycnonotidae - Bulbuls
    • Cebu Streak-breasted Bulbul, Ixos siquijorensis monticola (Cebu, Philippines, early 20th century) - Streak-breasted Bulbul subspecies
    Sylviidae - Old World warblers
    Eastern Canary Islands Chiffchaff
    Enlarge
    Eastern Canary Islands Chiffchaff

    • Aguiguan Nightingale Reed Warbler, Acrocephalus luscinia nijoi (Aguiguan, Marianas, c.1997)
    A subspecies of the Nightingale Reed Warbler of uncertain validity.
  • Astrolabe Nightingale Reed Warbler, Acrocephalus lucinius astrolabii (Marianas?, mid-19th century?)
    • A valid taxon, probably a subspecies of the Nightingale Reed Warbler, known from just 2 specimens found at an unknown location in the western Pacific.
  • Pagan Nightingale Reed Warbler, Acrocephalus luscinia yamashinae (Pagan, Marianas, 1970s)
    • Another doubtful subspecies of the Nightingale Reed Warbler.
  • Laysan Millerbird, Acrocephalus familiaris familiaris (Laysan Island, Hawaiʻian Islands, late 1910s) - Millerbird subspecies
  • Huahine Reed Warbler, Acrocephalus caffer garretti (Huahine, Society Islands, 19th century?)
    • A poorly known subspecies of the Tahiti Reed Warbler.
  • Raiatea Reed Warbler, Acrocephalus caffer musae (Raiatea, Society Islands, 19th century?)
    • Another subspecies of the Tahiti Reed Warbler, known only from a drawing.
  • Western Turner's Eremomela, Eremomela turneri kalindei (Congo Basin, early 1980s)
    • The West African subspecies of Turner's Eremomela has not been recorded since the end of the 1970s and habitat at the locations where it was once found is much reduced or destroyed.
  • Vanua Levu Long-legged Warbler, Trichocichla rufa clunei (Vanua Levu, Fiji, 1970s?)
    • A subspecies of the Long-legged Warbler; it was only found once.
  • Eastern Canary Islands Chiffchaff, Phylloscopus canariensis exsul (Lanzarote and possibly Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, 1986) - Canary Islands Chiffchaff subspecies
  • Fayyum Warbler, Sylvia melanocephala norissae (Egypt, c.1940) - Sardinian Warbler subspecies
    • Cisticolidae - Cisticolas and allies
    • Northern White-winged Apalis, Apalis chariessa chariessa (Kenya, 1960s?)
    The nominate subspecies of the White-winged Apalis remains known only from the Tana River, a center of endemism. It was last recorded in 1961.
    Zosteropidae - White-eyes
    • Guam Bridled White-eye, Zosterops conspicillatus conspicillatus (Guam, Marianas, 1983) - Bridled White-eye nominate subspecies
    • Cebu Everett's White-eye, Zosterops everetti everetti (Cebu, Philippines, early 20th century) - Everett's White-eye nominate subspecies
    • Mukojima White-eye, Apalopteron familiare familiare (Mukojima Group, Bonin Islands, 1930s) - Bonin White-eye ("Bonin Honeyeater") subspecies
    Paradoxornithidae - Parrotbills
    • Amik Gölü Bearded Tit, Panurus biarmicus kosswigi (Turkey, 1970s) - Bearded Tit subspecies
    Timaliidae - Babblers
    • Burmese Jerdon's Babbler, Chrysomma altirostre altirostre (Myanmar, 1940s)
    The nominate subspecies of Jerdon's Babbler was last seen in 1941, but due to the lack of recent fieldwork, it might still exist.
    Muscicapidae - Old World Flycatchers and chats Turdidae - Thrushes and allies
    • Norfolk Island Thrush, Turdus poliocephalus poliocephalus (Norfolk Island, Southwest Pacific, c.1975) - Island Thrush subspecies
    • Maré Island Thrush, Turdus poliocephalus mareensis (Maré, Melanesia, early 20th century)
    A subspecies of the Island Thrush, last collected in 1911 or 1912 and not found anymore in 1939.
  • Lord Howe Island Thrush, Turdus poliocephalus vinitinctus (Lord Howe Island, Southwest Pacific, 1920s) - Island Thrush subspecies
  • Lifou Island Thrush, Turdus poliocephalus pritzbueri (Lifou, Melanesia, early 20th century)
    • Yet another subspecies of the Island Thrush. Similar birds still exist on Tanna, New Hebrides, but given the fact that the species readily differentiates into subspecies and that the distance between Tanna and Lifou is considerable, it is far from certain that the Tanna birds belong to this subspecies.
  • Choiseul Russet-tailed Thrush, Zoothera heinei choiseuli (Choiseul, Solomon Islands, mid-20th century?)
  • A subspecies of the Russet-tailed Thrush known from a single specimen found in 1924 and probably killed off by introduced cats, most likely in the 1940s.
  • St Lucia Forest Thrush, Cichlherminia lherminieri sanctaeluciae (St Lucia, West Indies, 1980s)
    • A subspecies of the Forest Thrush, last seen in 1980.
  • Pines Solitaire, Myadestes elisabeth retrusus (Isla de la Juventud, West Indies, late 1930s?)
    • A subspecies of the Cuban Solitaire. Unconfirmed records suggest it did still exist in the early 1970s.

    See also

    External links and references

    List adapted, expanded and updated from that in Extinct Birds, Fuller, ISBN 0-19-850837-9 (Extinct Birds is an absorbing study of the world's recently extinct bird species, the first complete survey since Walter Rothschild's classic work of 1907)

     

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    All text is available under the terms of the GNU Free Documentation License See Wikipedia Copyrights for details.

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