Henderson fruit-dove (Ptilinopus insularis)

Species information

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Threats

As Henderson Island is uninhabited, the Henderson fruit-dove is not threatened by the habitat degradation that frequently threatens other island species. However, because the Henderson fruit-dove is restricted to only one small island, it is very vulnerable to the accidental introduction of a pest species or disease, via unauthorized boats landing on the island. The Polynesian rat Rattus exulans has been introduced to the island without a negative affect on the Henderson fruit-dove, but there is concern that the introduction of other Rattus species, such as the black rat, could have devastating consequences.

Conservation

Henderson Island was designated a World Heritage Site in 1988. Whilst the island is currently relatively undisturbed, a management plan has been drawn up with objectives such as preventing the introduction of exotic species, ensuring visitors do not damage the island in any way, and the introduction of a significant fee for stopping at Henderson (4). These measures will help ensure that the future of the Henderson fruit-dove is secure.