After 55 years of mystery, a “lost” bird has reappeared in the dense rainforests of Papua New Guinea! The New Britain Goshawk, a bird of prey thought to be elusive, was photographed for the first time ever by a surprised photographer on a mission with the WWF. This thrilling discovery in the remote Nakanai Mountains is sparking excitement among conservationists, and with local communities now rallying to protect it, the race to save this rare species has officially begun.
The Rediscovery of the New Britain Goshawk
In a groundbreaking discovery, the New Britain Goshawk was photographed for the first time since its last sighting in 1969. This bird of prey, native to Papua New Guinea, had eluded scientific documentation for 55 years. The recent sighting was a significant step for conservationists.
Capturing the First Image
In March 2024, photographer Tom Vierus was on a scoping trip with the WWF in Pomio, eastern New Britain. Alongside local guides, Vierus captured the image of the goshawk without realizing its importance. It wasn’t until later that he learned it was the first photograph ever taken of the elusive bird.
Papua New Guinea’s Biodiversity Hotspot
Papua New Guinea is known for its incredible biodiversity. The New Britain Goshawk was photographed in the Nakanai Mountains, part of a tentative UNESCO World Heritage site. The region is home to the third-largest tropical rainforest in the world, full of species yet to be discovered.
The Vulnerable Status of the Goshawk
The New Britain Goshawk is classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). With an estimated 2,500-9,999 mature individuals left, it is a rare and precious species. The 2024 sighting reignited efforts to protect this bird and its habitat.
A Local Effort for Conservation
After the photograph was identified, WWF began working closely with local communities in Pomio. These communities, who have a deep connection to their environment, are helping conservationists understand the region’s biodiversity. Their knowledge is crucial to protecting the goshawk and other species.
Threats to the Goshawk’s Habitat
Despite the discovery, the New Britain Goshawk faces many threats. Logging, agriculture, and mining are pushing deeper into the forests, putting the bird’s habitat at risk. Local conservation efforts are essential to preserving these areas from further damage.
Indigenous Knowledge and Conservation
The Indigenous Mengen and Mamusi peoples of Pomio have a rich history connected to the land. WWF is working with these groups to develop community-led conservation programs. Their stewardship of the land offers hope for protecting the rare species that call it home.
The Role of Conservation Photography
The photograph of the New Britain Goshawk is more than just a picture. It highlights the importance of conservation photography in raising awareness and protecting species. Photographer Tom Vierus believes that visual storytelling is a powerful tool in the fight for biodiversity.
Future Conservation Plans
WWF and local governments are expanding their conservation efforts following the rediscovery of the goshawk. In response to the sighting, Papua New Guinea is revising its National Biodiversity Strategy. The goal is to safeguard the country’s wildlife from the looming pressures of development.
Hope for Papua New Guinea’s Wildlife
The discovery of the New Britain Goshawk offers hope for Papua New Guinea’s wildlife. Conservationists believe that more species, like the black-naped pheasant pigeon rediscovered in 2022, may be found. It’s a reminder of the importance of protecting the world’s remaining untouched forests.
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