Justification of Red List category
This species has a very small population and a restricted range, with the plausible threat of introduced predators driving it to CR or EX in a very short time. It is therefore classified as Vulnerable.
Population justification
Based on a density of 2.7 pairs per ha, the population has been estimated at around 500 pairs (McLean and Miskelly 1988) and is still thought to be stable (Robertson et al. 2021), conservatively placed here in the range of 250-999 mature individuals.
Trend justification
The population density appears to have remained fairly stable since the late 1940s (Miskelly et al. 2001). Overall the population is considered to have been stable within the last three generations (Robertson et al. 2013, 2017, 2021).
Petroica dannefaerdi is only found on the Snares Islands (New Zealand), on North East Island and Broughton Island.
This species is predominantly found in scrubby tussock grassland, feeding principally on insects less than 2 m above ground (del Hoyo et al. 2018).
If non-native mammalian predators arrive on the Snares they could quickly lead to this species becoming Critically Endangered or Extinct.
Conservation Actions Underway
Biosecurity measures are implemented on all those who visit the Snares.
Conservation Actions Proposed
Conduct surveys to monitor the population. Prevent invasive mammals from getting to the Snares.
Text account compilers
Westrip, J.R.S., Stringer, C., Butchart, S., Vine, J., Ekstrom, J.
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Species factsheet: Snares Tomtit Petroica dannefaerdi. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/snares-tomtit-petroica-dannefaerdi on 23/11/2024.
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 23/11/2024.