Bokikokiko facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bokikokiko |
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Illustration by J. G. Keulemans (1883) | |
Conservation status | |
Scientific classification | |
Genus: |
Acrocephalus (bird)
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Species: |
aequinoctialis
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Approximate distribution
Range Extinct Depicted: Teraina (top), Tabuaeran (middle), and Kiritimati (bottom), Northern Line Islands, Kiribati, Oceania |
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Synonyms | |
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The bokikokiko, Kiritimati reed warbler or Christmas Island warbler (Acrocephalus aequinoctialis) is a species of warbler in the family Acrocephalidae. It is found only on Kiritimati and Washington Island (Kiribati).
The population size of the bokikokiko is estimated to be around 2500, with a decreasing population trend. The species is under threat from introduced species such as the pig and rat but especially the feral cat and climate change in relation to rising sea levels. This species, along with the Henderson petrel, is currently listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Subspecies
The species may be divided into the following subspecies:
- Acrocephalus aequinoctialis aequinoctialis Latham, 1790. (Distributed across northern pacific Line Islands.)
- Acrocephalus aequinoctialis pistor. (Distributed across Teraina and Tabuaeran.)
Human Interactions
This bird has a lot of medicinal and symbolic significance. Its feathers are considered to have testosterone enhancing properties since ancient times, which is why these birds were hunted so widely.