Cocos flycatcher facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cocos flycatcher |
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| Conservation status | |
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| Genus: |
Nesotriccus
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| Species: |
ridgwayi
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The Cocos flycatcher (scientific name: Nesotriccus ridgwayi) is a small, grey bird. It belongs to the Tyrannidae family, which includes many types of flycatchers. This little bird is about 13 centimeters (5 inches) long and has a long beak. It uses its beak to catch insects.
Where It Lives
The Cocos flycatcher lives only in one special place. It is found only on Cocos Island. This island is located off the coast of Costa Rica in Central America. When a plant or animal lives only in one specific area, we call it endemic.
This bird makes its home in several types of natural areas. It likes warm, wet places. You can find it in tropical lowland forests. It also lives in tropical swamps and moist mountain forests. Sometimes, it can be seen in tropical shrublands too.
Why It Needs Our Help
The Cocos flycatcher is considered a Vulnerable animal. This means it faces a high risk of becoming extinct in the wild. Even though there is no clear evidence of its numbers going down yet, its tiny home range makes it very sensitive.
Threats to the Cocos Flycatcher
The main dangers to this bird come from animals that were brought to Cocos Island by humans. These are called introduced species.
- Rats and feral cats are a big problem. They hunt and eat the flycatchers, especially their eggs and young birds.
- Pigs also cause harm. They dig around for food, which destroys the places where the flycatchers live and find food. This is called habitat loss.
Scientists and conservation groups are working to protect the Cocos flycatcher. They want to make sure this unique bird continues to thrive on its special island home.
See also
In Spanish: Mosquerito de la isla del Coco para niños
