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The brown tree snake hit the jackpot when it found its way onto the island of Guam – flightless, ground-nesting birds with no defenses against a snake. Several bird species, including the Guam rail, were wiped out. Managed breeding and reintroduction on Guam and neighboring islands are the rail’s best hope for survival.

guam rail profile

Did You Know?

Although Guam rails seldom vocalize, they do respond to other rails, loud noises, or other disturbances with a loud, piercing whistle or series of whistles.

Quick Facts

Latin Name:
Gallirallus owstoni

Range:
Guam

Habitat:
Forest and grassland

Length:
11 in

Lifespan:
5.5 years for females; 9 years for males

Zoo Location:
Birds of the World

Diet:
Small animals, carrion, seeds, and leaves

Risk Status:
Species at Risk (IUCN—Extinct in the wild)