Samoan Moorhen

Gallinula pacifica

The Samoan woodhen, also known as Samoan wood rail, is a nearly flightless rail endemic to the Samoan island of Savai'i that is Critically Endangered. As it has evolved adaptations for a more terrestrial lifestyle and at least partly nocturnal habits, it is probably better placed in a distinct genus, Pareudiastes, but this issue has not yet been thoroughly researched. It was known as puna'e to the native Samoans; this was said to relate to the bird's habit of making a jumping dash into cover when startled from its resting place.

Scientific name

Gallinula pacifica

Family

Rails, Gallinules, and Coots

IUCN status

CR