Feathers & Forests: Birds of Ua Huka
Tucked away in the wild beauty of the Marquesas archipelago, Ua Huka is a sanctuary of biodiversity. This remote island is home to an extraordinary array of bird species, many of which are endemic to the Marquesas, and some found nowhere else in the world but here.
- Land Birds: Guardians of the Island Forest
Terrestrial birds of Ua Huka play a vital role in sustaining the island’s natural balance. Feeding on fruits, pollinating native plants, and dispersing seeds, they are essential actors in the regeneration of the forest and the overall health of the island’s ecosystem. Their song echoes a deep harmony between land and life.
- Seabirds: Sentinels of the Ocean
Along the coastline, seabirds bring a striking energy to the horizon. Their presence not only enriches the food chain but also serves as a key indicator of the health of surrounding marine ecosystems. Watching them glide above the waves or nest along rocky cliffs is both a privilege and a reminder of nature’s intricate balance.
Like many isolated islands, Ua Huka faces growing threats. Invasive species such as rats, stray cats, and wild goats have disturbed the delicate natural order. These non-native predators and competitors pose a serious risk to nesting birds, native flora, and the island’s overall biodiversity.
Iconic species like the ultramarine lory, now endangered, are in urgent need of protection.
*** Source: Association Vaiku’a
