Data Zone
Justification of Red List category
This species has a restricted range and is inferred to be undergoing a continuing decline as a result of ongoing forest loss and degradation. It is therefore classified as Near Threatened.
Population justification
The population size has not been estimated but this species is described as uncommon throughout its range (Dutson 2011, Callaghan et al. 2019).
Trend justification
The population is inferred to be declining owing to forest loss and degradation. Malaita has experienced moderate levels of logging and a slow rate of deforestation (Katovai et al. 2015), and remote sensing data (Global Forest Watch 2022, using Hansen et al. [2013] data and methods disclosed therein) indicate that in the ten years to 2020, forest loss in this species' range has been equivalent to 3-5%. This may accelerate slightly (to an equivalent rate of 4-6%) in the future based on losses 2015-2020. The species is described as rare in heavily degraded forest (Dutson 2011) such that the population is inferred to be declining and these losses are not expected to slow or cease, with extensive areas of Malaita under logging concessions (Katovai et al. 2015).
This species is restricted to Malaita (Solomon Islands). It is a relatively uncommon species throughout its range and apparently has little tolerance of degraded forest (Dutson 2011).
It occurs in primary and old-growth closed-canopy secondary forest from the lowlands into the hills of Malaita (Dutson 2011). It is rare in heavily degraded forest (Dutson 2011).
The main threat to this species is forest loss in its range (Global Forest Watch 2022, using Hansen et al. [2013] data and methods disclosed therein). Large areas of the forest on Malaita have been logged or are under logging concessions.
Conservation Actions Underway
There are several on-going community conservation efforts ongoing to protect primary forest on Malaita, such as the Wai Hou Conservation Foundation in West Are’are, and the Kwainaa’isi Cultural Centre in East Kwaio (J. van der Ploeg in litt. 2020).
Conservation Actions Proposed
Conduct research to determine the population size. Regularly monitor the population at certain sites. Research its tolerance of degraded forest. Set aside and protect significant areas of remaining primary forest from logging.
Text account compilers
Vine, J.
Contributors
Derhé, M., Dutson, G., Mahood, S., O'Brien, A. & van der Ploeg, J.
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Species factsheet: Malaita Monarch Symposiachrus malaitae. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/malaita-monarch-symposiachrus-malaitae on 22/12/2024.
Recommended citation for factsheets for more than one species: BirdLife International (2024) IUCN Red List for birds. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/search on 22/12/2024.