Details
This Swamphen is another ground-dwelling bird which has succumbed to the introduced mongoose. Consequently it is only found on some of the small islands and other mongoose-free islands such as Taveuni, Kadavu and Ovalau. Visitors from New Zealand will recognise the Fiji Swamphen as their Pukeko, but in Fiji it is not such an adaptable and common bird.
Fact Card
COMMON NAME: BLACK BACKED SWAMPHEN
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Gallirallus philippensis
GROUP NAME: KINGDOM – Animalia / PHYLUM – Chordata / CLASS – Aves
ORDER – Gruiformes / FAMILY – Rallidae / GENUS – Porphyrio
Video: Black Backed Swamphen
References
- [Josep del Hoyo]. (2007, August 4). Black-backed Swamphen Porphyrio indicus [Video]. Macaulay Library. Link
Additional Sources of Information
- NatureFiji-MareqetiViti is Fiji’s only domestic NGO working solely for the conservation and sustainable management of Fiji’s unique natural heritage – Link
Author: Fiji Journal
Fiji Journal consists of a small team of creative storytellers, who connect, and inspire independent travelers around the world. We’re obsessed with travel and passionate about helping you explore your curiosity and gain a deeper understanding of Fijian Culture, and Islands. Travel is not just an opportunity for adventure but a way of life.
