Newly discovered finch loses home
A brand new species of finch has been discovered in eastern Venezuela, but not before its tiny island habitat was destroyed for a hydroelectric dam project.
Ironically the bird was discovered because the Venezuelan electricity company, EDELCA, undertaking the damming project had commissioned an assessment of local wildlife. This was partly motivated by a desire to compensate for the loss of Carrizal island. Unfortunately, by the time the bird had been designated a new species, its dense bamboo habitat had been deforested.
Researchers from conservation group Audubon Venezuela were surprised by the discovery of the three small birds, as this area of the Orinoco Basin has been relatively well mapped by biodiversity surveys in the past. But the Carrizal Seedeater – as it has been named – had previously been safely concealed in its physically and visually impenetrable home of spiny Guadua bamboo.
EDELCA is very keen to support a new search for other members of this finch species in nearby thickets of the spiny bamboo. The company has offered logistical support for a new expedition but has limited funds for conservation work.
There is some disappointment that no other individuals have yet been found, but Venezuela Audubon president, Clemencia Rodner remains optimistic.
‘In the surrounding area of this lower basin of the Caroni River, there are extensive patches of spiny Guadua bamboo and we are convinced that the Carrizal Seedeater will be found in them.’
‘However, we must do surveys and map the Guadua patches, and try to figure out population densities. I believe that the responsible action is to mount a major study of this habitat as soon as possible.’
Researchers Miguel Lentino and Robin Restall identified the Carrizal Seedeater as a separate species as it has a larger bill than other finches and small plumage differences.
