About 129 species of birds have become extinct since 1500,[1] and the rate of extinction seems to be increasing.[2] The situation is exemplified by Hawaii, where 30% of all known recently extinct bird taxa originally lived.[3] Other areas, such as Guam, have also been hit hard; Guam has lost over 60% of its native bird taxa in the last 30 years, many of them due to the introduced brown tree snake (Boiga irregularis).[4]
This article is about birds that have become extinct since 1500. For a list of birds known only from fossils, see List of fossil bird genera. For a list of birds birds extinct in Late Quaternary prehistoric times and (usually) known from specimens not completely fossilized, see List of Late Quaternary prehistoric bird species.
This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (January 2022)
Threatened comprises CR, EN and VU. Upper estimate additionally includes DD.
Chart omits extinct (EX) species
Currently there are approximately 10,000 living species of birds, with over 1,480 at risk of extinction and 223 critically endangered.[5]
Island species in general, and flightless island species in particular, are most at risk. The disproportionate number of rails in this list reflects the tendency of that family to lose the ability to fly when geographically isolated. Even more rails became extinct before they could be described by scientists; these taxa are listed in List of Late Quaternary prehistoric bird species.
The extinction dates given below are usually approximations of the actual date of extinction. In some cases, more exact dates are given as it is sometimes possible to pinpoint the date of extinction to a specific year or even day (the San Benedicto rock wren is possibly the most extreme example–its extinction could be timed with an accuracy of maybe half an hour). Extinction dates in the literature are usually the dates of the last verified record (credible observation or specimen taken); for many Pacific birds that became extinct shortly after European contact, however, this leaves an uncertainty period of over 100 years, because the islands on which they lived were only rarely visited by scientists.
West Coast spotted kiwi, Apteryx occidentalis (South Island, New Zealand, c.1900)
A doubtfully distinct species known from a single specimen; may be a subspecies of the little spotted kiwi (Apteryx owenii) or a hybrid between that species and the Okarito kiwi (Apteryx rowi).
Pink-headed duck, Rhodonessa caryophyllacea (East India, Bangladesh, North Myannar, 1945?)–a reclassification into the genus Netta is recommended, but not generally accepted by all authorities.
Officially classified as critically endangered; recent surveys have failed to rediscover it, though sightings continue to be recorded.
A bone of a pochard found on Réunion seems to resolve the reports of canards other than the Mascarene teal having occurred on the island. The taxonomic status of this extinct form cannot be resolved until more material is found, however.
May have survived to the early 19th or even the 20th century, as suggested by circumstantial evidence.
Raoul Island scrubfowl, Megapodius sp. (Raoul, Kermadec Islands, 1876)
A megapode is said to have inhabited Raoul Island until the population was wiped out in a volcanic eruption. It is not clear whether the birds represent a distinct taxon or derive from a prehistoric introduction by Polynesian seafarers.
Himalayan quail, Ophrysia superciliosa (North India, late 19th century?)
Officially critically endangered. Not recorded with certainty since 1876, but thorough surveys are still required, and there was a recent set of possible (though unlikely) sightings around Naini Tal in 2003. A little-known native name from western Nepal probably refers to this bird, but for various reasons, no survey for Ophrysia has ever been conducted in that country, nor is it generally assumed to occur there (due to the native name being overlooked).
Later sightings of black oystercatchers off of Senegal were not likely to be of this sedentary species, but two records from Tenerife–the last one in 1981–may be.
Slender-billed curlew, Numenius tenuirostris (Western Siberia, early in the first decade of the 21st century?)
May still exist; officially classified as critically endangered. A few birds were recorded in 2004 following several decades of increasing rarity. There was also an unconfirmed sighting in Albania in 2007. A survey to find out whether this bird still exists is currently being undertaken by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (BirdLife in the UK).
Known by pre-Columbian bones from Puerto Rico and the United States Virgin Islands. Stories of an easy-to-catch bird named the carrao heard by Alexander Wetmore in 1912 on Puerto Rico may refer to this bird.
This bird was previously known only from a drawing from the 1793 Malaspina expedition, apparently depicting a species of Gallirallus. Subfossil remains belonging to this species were found in 2020.[7]
New Caledonian rail, Cabalus lafresnanayanus (New Caledonia, Melanesia, c.1900?)
Officially classified as critically endangered, the last records were in 1984 and it seems as if all of the available habitat has now been overrun by feral pigs and feral dogs, which preyed on this bird.
Ascension crake, Mundia elpenor (Ascension Island, South Atlantic, late 17th century)–formerly Atlantisia
Saint Helena crake, Zapornia astrictocarpus (St. Helena, South Atlantic, early 16th century)
Kosrae crake, Zapornia monasa (Kosrae, Carolines, c. mid-to-late 19th century)
Tahiti crake, Zapornia nigra (Tahiti, Society Islands, South Pacific, c.1800)
Known only from paintings and descriptions; its taxonomic status is uncertain, as the material is often believed to refer to the extant spotless crake (Zapornia tabuensis).
Saint Helena rail, Aphanocrex podarces (St. Helena, South Atlantic, 16th century)–formerly Atlantisia
May have survived to c.1900. In the lower right hand corner of Paul Gauguin's 1902 painting Le Sorcier d'Hiva Oa ou le Marquisien à la cape rouge, there is a bird which resembles native descriptions of P. paepae.
North Island takahē, Porphyrio mantelli (North Island, New Zealand, late 19th century)
Known from subfossil bones found in New Zealand's North Island; may have survived to 1894 or later.
Probably better placed in the genus Pareudiastes. Unconfirmed reports from the late 20th century suggest it still exists in small numbers and therefore it is officially classified as critically endangered.
Only known from a single specimen, this rail is probably better placed in its own genus, Edithornis. Unconfirmed recent records suggest it still exists and therefore it is officially classified as critically endangered.
Tristan moorhen, Gallinula nesiotis (Tristan da Cunha, South Atlantic, late 19th century)
Mascarene coot, Fulica newtonii (Mauritius and Réunion, Mascarenes, c.1700)
Only known from a type specimen, but scientist speculate that it originated form Indonesia. Could possibly be a colour morph of the buff-banded rail.
Fernando de Noronha rail, Rallidae gen. et sp. indet. (Fernando de Noronha, West Atlantic, 16th century?)
A distinct species of rail inhabited Fernando de Noronha Island, but it has not been formally described yet. It probably still existed at the time of the first Western contact.
Tahitian "goose", Rallidae gen. et sp. indet. (Tahiti, Society Islands, South Pacific, late 18th century?)
Early travelers to Tahiti reported a "goose" that was found in the mountains. Altogether, a species of rail in the genus Porphyrio seems to be the most likely possibility.
Bokaak "bustard", Rallidae? gen. et sp. indet. 'Bokaak'
An unidentified terrestrial bird is mentioned in an early report from Bokaak in the Marshall Islands. It was described as a "bustard" and may have actually been a rail or a megapode. In the former case, it may have been a vagrant of a still-existing species; in any case, no bird that could be described as "bustard-like" is found on Bokaak today.[8]
Rallidae gen. et sp. indet. 'Amsterdam Island'
Unknown rail from Amsterdam Island; one specimen was found, but it was not recovered. Extinct by 1800, it may have been a vagrant of a still-existing species.
Officially declared extinct in 2010, 25 years after the last official sighting. Its extinction was due to habitat destruction and hybridisation with the little grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis). Disappeared from its only known location in 1985.
A wing of a petrel carcass that was similar in appearance to Gould's petrel (Pterodroma leucoptera) was recovered on Mangareva in 1922, where it possibly bred. No such birds are known to exist there today.
Guadalupe storm petrel, Hydrobates macrodactylus (Guadalupe Island, East Pacific, 1910s)
Mascarene booby, Papasula sp. (Mauritius and Rodrigues, Mascarenes, mid-19th century)
An undescribed booby species that was formerly considered a population of Abbott's booby (Papasula abbotti). Known physically only from subfossil bones, but is likely the bird referred to as a boeuf by early settlers; the boeuf was last recorded on Rodrigues in 1832 and likely went extinct following the deforestation of the island.
Réunion ibis, Threskiornis solitarius (Réunion, Mascarenes, early 18th century)
This species was the basis for the "Réunion solitaire" or "white dodo" ("Raphus solitarius"), a supposed relative of the dodo and the Rodrigues solitaire. Given the fact that ibis (but no dodo-like) bones were found on Réunion and that old descriptions match a flightless sacred ibis quite well, the "Réunion solitaire" hypothesis has been refuted.
New Zealand bittern, Ixobrychus novaezelandiae (New Zealand, late 19th century)
Long considered to be vagrant individuals of the Australian little bittern (Ixobrychus dubius); bones recovered from Holocene deposits indicate that this was indeed a distinct taxon, but it may not be a distinct species.
Rodrigues night heron, Nycticorax megacephalus (Rodrigues, Mascarenes, mid-18th century)
Ascension night heron, Nycticorax olsoni (Ascension Island, South Atlantic, late 16th century?)
Known only from subfossil bones, but the description of a flightless Ascension Island bird by André Thévet cannot be identified with anything other than this species.
Saint Helena dove, Dysmoropelia dekarchiskos (St. Helena, South Atlantic, 16th century?)
Known only from Late Pleistocene bones, but may have persisted until the 16th century.
Passenger pigeon, Ectopistes migratorius (eastern North America, 1914)
The passenger pigeon was once among the most abundant wild bird species in the world, with a single flock numbering up to 2.2billion birds. It was hunted close to extinction for food and sport in the late 19th century. The last individual, a mateless female named Martha after Martha Washington, died in the Cincinnati Zoo in 1914.
Ryukyu wood pigeon, Columba jouyi (Okinawa and Daito Islands, Northwest Pacific, late 1930s)
Rodrigues pigeon, Nesoenas rodericanus (Rodrigues, Mascarenes, before 1690?)
Formerly in Streptopelia. Possibly a subspecies of the Malagasy turtle dove (Nesoenas picturatus), this seems to be the bird observed by Leguat. Introduced rats may have caused it to become extinct in the late 17th century.
Spotted green pigeon, Caloenas maculata (South Pacific or Indian Ocean islands, 1820s)
Also known as the Liverpool pigeon, the only known specimen has been in Liverpool's World Museum since 1851, and was probably collected on a Pacific island for Edward Stanley, 13th Earl of Derby. It has been suggested that this bird came from Tahiti based on native lore about a somewhat similar extinct bird called the titi, but this has not yet been verified.
Sulu bleeding-heart, Gallicolumba menagei (Tawitawi, Philippines, late 1990s?)
Officially classified as critically endangered. Only known from two specimens taken in 1891. There have been a number of unconfirmed reports from all over the Sulu Archipelago in 1995; however, these reports stated that the bird had suddenly undergone a massive decline and, by now, habitat destruction is almost complete. If it is not extinct, this species is certainly very rare, but the ongoing civil war prevents comprehensive surveys.
Norfolk ground dove, Pampusana norfolciensis (Norfolk Island, Southwest Pacific, c.1800)
Tanna ground dove, Pampusana ferruginea (Tanna, Vanuatu, late 18th or 19th century)
Only known from descriptions of two now-lost specimens.
Two subspecies, the little-known nominate subspecies P. m. mercierii of Nuku Hiva (extinct mid- to late 19th century) and P. m. tristrami of Hiva Oa (1922).
Negros fruit dove, Ptilinopus arcanus (Negros, Philippines, late 20th century?)
Known only from one specimen taken at the only documented sighting in 1953; the validity of this species has been questioned, but no good alternative to distinct species status has been proposed. Officially classified as critically endangered, it may still exist on Panay, but no survey has located it. One possible record in 2002 does not seem to have been repeated since then.
Only known from early reports; possibly a subspecies of either the Comoros blue pigeon (Alectroenas sganzini) or the Seychelles blue pigeon (Alectroenas pulcherrimus).
Dodo, Raphus cucullatus (Mauritius, Mascarenes, late 17th century)
Called Didus ineptus by Linnaeus. A metre-high flightless bird found on Mauritius. Its forest habitat was destroyed when Dutch settlers moved to the island and the dodo's nests and eggs were destroyed by the pigs, cats and monkeys that the Dutch brought with them. The last specimen was killed in 1681, only 80 years after the arrival of the new predators.
"Painted vulture", Sarcoramphus sacra (Florida, North America, late 18th century?)
A bird supposedly similar in appearance to the king vulture (Sarcoramphus papa) identified by William Bartram on his travels in the 1770s. Skeptics have stated that it is likely based on a misidentification of the crested caracara (Caracara plancus), although evidence has increasingly shifted towards it being a valid taxon that once existed, either as a distinct species in its own right or as a subspecies of the king vulture, based on an independent illustration of a nearly identical bird made several decades earlier by Eleazar Albin. See the King vulture article for discussion.
Officially classified as critically endangered, but it may still exist. A 2018 BirdLife study citing extinction patterns recommended reclassifying this species as possibly extinct.
Réunion scops owl, Otus grucheti (Réunion, Mascarenes, late 17th century?)
The preceding three species were variously placed in the genera Bubo, Athene, "Scops" (=Otus), Strix and Tyto and even in their own genus, Mascarenotus, before their true affinity was realized.
Only known from the holotype collected in 1866. It may still exist, as there are ongoing rumors of scops owls at Siau.
New Caledonian boobook, Ninox cf. novaeseelandiae (New Caledonia, Melanesia)
Known only from prehistoric bones, but it may still exist.
Laughing owl, Ninox albifacies (New Zealand, 1914?)
Two subspecies: the nominate subspecies N. a. albifacies (South Island and Stewart Island, extinct 1914?) and N. a. rufifacies (North Island, extinct c.1870s?); circumstantial evidence suggests that small remnants survived until the early or mid-20th century.
Puerto Rican barn owl, Tyto cavatica (Puerto Rico, West Indies, early 20th century?)
Known from prehistoric bones found in caves on Puerto Rico; it may have still existed up to 1912, given reports of the presence of cave-roosting owls. Likely a subspecies of, or synonymous with, the still-existing ashy-faced owl (Tyto glaucops).
Jamaican poorwill, Siphonorhis americana (Jamaica, West Indies, late 19th century?)
Reports of unidentifiable nightjars from the 1980s in habitat appropriate for this cryptic species suggest that it may still exist. Research into this possibility is currently underway; pending further information, it is officially classified as critically endangered, possibly extinct.
Cuban pauraque, Siphonorhis daiquiri (Cuba, West Indies, prehistoric?)
Described from subfossil bones in 1985. There are persistent rumors that this bird, which was never seen alive by scientists, may still exist. Compare the Puerto Rican nightjar (Antrostomus noctitherus) and the preceding species.
Vaurie's nightjar, Caprimulgus centralasicus (China, early 20th century?)
Only known from a single specimen from Xinjiang, China taken in 1929. It has never been seen or found again, but the validity of this supposed species is seriously disputed. It was, however, never refuted to be an immature desert-dwelling female European nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus).
Officially classified as critically endangered, possibly extinct. Known only from six pre-1900 specimens, the habitat at the only known site where it occurred has been destroyed. However, the bird's distribution remains unresolved.
Saint Helena hoopoe, Upupa antaois (St. Helena, South Atlantic, early 16th century)
Guam kingfisher, Todirhmphus cinnamominus (Guam, West Pacific, 1986)
This species became extinct in the wild in 1986 when 29 birds were taken for a captive breeding programme, which is still ongoing. Its decline was caused by predation by introduced brown tree snakes.
Bermuda flicker, Colaptes oceanicus (Bermuda, West Atlantic, 17th century?)
Known only from fossil bones found in Bermuda and dated to the Late Pleistocene and the Holocene; however, a 17th-century report written by explorer Captain John Smith may refer to this species.
This 60-centimetre-long woodpecker is officially classified as critically endangered, possibly extinct. Occasional unconfirmed reports come up; the most recent was in late 2005.
Ivory-billed woodpecker, Campephilus principalis (southeastern United States and Cuba, late 20th century)
This bird has a very restricted distribution and was last reliably recorded in 1949. It was not found during searches in 2004 and 2006 and seems to be extinct; efforts to find it again continue, but are hampered by the threat of armed conflict.
Norfolk kākāNorfolk kākā, Nestor productus (Norfolk and Philip Islands, Southwest Pacific, 1851?)
Chatham kākā, Nestor chathamensis (Chatham Islands, New Zealand, between 1500 and 1650)
Society parakeet, Cyanoramphus ulietanus (Raiatea, Society Islands, South Pacific, late 18th century)
Black-fronted parakeet, Cyanoramphus zealandicus (Tahiti, Society Islands, South Pacific, c.1850)
Lord Howe parakeet, Cyanorhamphus subflavescens (Lord Howe Island, Southwest Pacific, c. 1870)
Last recorded in 1890 and not found by surveys in 1894.
Paradise parrot, Psephotellus pulcherrimus (Rockhampton area, Australia, late 1920s)
Oceanic eclectus, Eclectus infectus, known from subfossil bones found on Tonga, Vanuatu, and possibly Fiji, may have survived until the 18th century or even longer: a bird which seems to be a male Eclectus parrot was drawn in a report on the Tongan island of Vavaʻu by the Malaspina expedition. Also, a 19th-century Tongan name ʻāʻā ("parrot") for "a beautiful bird found only at ʻEua" is attested (see here[10] under "kākā"). This seems to refer to either E. infectus, which in Tonga is only known from Vavaʻu and ʻEua, or the extirpated population of the collared lory (Vini solitaria), which also occurred there. It is possible, but unlikely, that this species survived on ʻEua until the 19th century.
Officially classified as critically endangered, there have been no reports of this species since the mid-20th century. It is, however, small and inconspicuous and is likely to have been overlooked.
Formerly known as the Mauritius grey parrot (Lophopsittacus bensoni). Known from a 1602 sketch by Captain Willem van Westzanen and by subfossil bones described by David Thomas Holyoak in 1973. It may have survived into the mid-18th century.
Mascarene parrot, Mascarinus mascarinus (Réunion and possibly Mauritius, Mascarenes, 1834?)
The last known individual was a captive bird which was alive before 1834.
Glaucous macaw, Anodorhynchus glaucus (northern Argentina, early 20th century)
Officially classified as critically endangered due to persistent rumors of wild birds, but probably extinct.
Cuban macaw, Ara tricolor (Cuba, late 19th century)
A number of related macaw species have been described from the West Indies, but are not based on good evidence. Several prehistoric forms are now known to have existed in the region, however.
Carolina parakeet, Conuropsis carolinensis (southeastern North America, c.1930?)
Although the date of the last captive bird's death in the Cincinnati Zoo, 1918, is generally given as this species' date of extinction, there are convincing reports of some wild populations persisting until later. Two subspecies, C. c. carolinensis (Carolina parakeet, east and south of the Appalachian Mountains–extinct either 1918 or c.1930) and C. c. ludovicianus (Louisiana parakeet, west of the Appalachian Mountains–extinct c.1912).
Guadeloupe parakeet, Psittacara labati (Guadeloupe, West Indies, late 18th century)
Only known from descriptions; the former existence of this bird is likely both for biogeographic reasons and because details about it as described cannot be referred to any known species.
Martinique amazon, Amazona martinica (Martinique, West Indies, mid-18th century)
Guadeloupe amazon, Amazona violacea (Guadeloupe, West Indies, mid-18th century)
These two extinct amazons were originally described from travelers' descriptions. Their existence is still controversial.
Lyall's wren, Traversia lyalli (New Zealand, 1895?)
A flightless species that was famously (but erroneously) claimed to have become extinct due to predation by a single lighthouse keeper's cat named "Tibbles".
Three subspecies, X. l. stokesi (North Island, extinct 1955); the nominate subspecies X. l. longipes (South Island, extinct 1968) and X. l. variabilis (Stewart Island, extinct 1972).
Mohoidae–Hawaiian honeyeaters. Family established in 2008, previously in Meliphagidae.
Kioea, Chaetoptila angustipluma (Big Island, Hawaiian Islands, 1860s)
Sometimes regarded as a subspecies of the New Zealand bellbird (Anthornis melanera). Unconfirmed records exist from the early to mid-1950s.
The identity of "Strigiceps leucopogon" (an invalid name)[11] described by Lesson in 1840 is unclear. Apart from the holotype supposedly from "New Holland", a second specimen from the "Himalaya" either may have existed or may still exist. Lesson tentatively allied it to the Meliphagidae, and Rothschild felt reminded of the kioea.
Acanthizidae–scrubwrens, thornbills, and gerygones
Lord Howe gerygone, Gerygone insularis (Lord Howe Island, Southwest Pacific, c.1930)
Pachycephalidae–whistlers, shrike-thrushes, pitohuis and allies
Mangarevan whistler,?Pachycephala gambierana (Mangareva, Gambier Islands, South Pacific, late 19th century?)
Tentatively placed here. A mysterious bird of which no specimens exist today. It was initially described as a shrike, then classified as an Eopsalteria "robin" and may actually be an Acrocephalus warbler.
Maupiti monarch, Pomarea pomarea (Maupiti, Society Islands, South Pacific, mid-19th century)
Eiao monarch, Pomarea fluxa (Eiao, Marquesas, late 1970s)
Previously considered a subspecies of the Iphis monarch (Pomarea iphis), this is an early offspring of the Marquesan stock.
Nuku Hiva monarch, Pomarea nukuhivae (Nuku Hiva, Marquesas, mid- to late 20th century)
Previously considered a subspecies of the Marquesas monarch (Pomarea mendozae), this is another early offspring of the Marquesan stock.
Ua Pou monarch, Pomarea mira (Ua Pou, Marquesas, c.1986)
Also previously considered a subspecies of the Marquesas monarch, this was a distinct species most closely related to that bird and the Fatuhiva monarch (Pomarea whitneyi).
Guam flycatcher, Myiagra freycineti (Guam and Marianas, West Pacific, 1983)
Two subspecies, T. c. minor from Stephens Island (extinct c.1897) and the nominate subspecies T. c. capensis from the South Island mainland (last specimen taken in 1902, last unconfirmed record in 1963)
This species is usually considered to be extinct, as it has not been reliably recorded since 1967. However, recent reports from Fiordland suggest that it may still exist.
Officially classified as critically endangered, this enigmatic species is only known from migrating birds and it was last seen in 1986 at its former roost site. Recent unconfirmed reports suggest that it may still exist in Cambodia.
Known from a single specimen found in 1984; this enigmatic swallow may still exist, but the lack of recent records is puzzling. It is also alternatively placed in the genus Hirundo.
Acrocephalidae–acrocephalid warblers or marsh warblers, tree warblers and reed warblers
Garrett's reed warbler, Acrocephalus musae (Raiatea and Huahine, Society Islands, South Pacific, 19th century?)
Two subspecies, A. m. garretti from Huahine and A. m. musae from Raiatea. Previously considered a subspecies of the Tahiti reed warbler (Acrocephalus caffer).
Moorea reed warbler, Acrocephalus longirostris (Moorea, Society Islands, South Pacific, 1980s?)
The last reliable sighting of this bird was in 1981. A survey in 1986 / 1987 was unsuccessful in finding it. A photograph of a warbler from Moorea in 1998 or 1999 taken by Philippe Bacchet remains uncertain, as do reports from 2003 and 2010. Also previously considered a subspecies of the Tahiti reed warbler.
An enigmatic species known only from two or four possibly migrant specimens, last recorded in 1918. It may still exist in northeastern Indochina. Possibly a subspecies of the Hainan blue flycatcher (Cyornis hainanus).
A mysterious species found in the Tana River Basin in small numbers at various dates but not seen since 1972. It is probably invalid; if so, it may be based on aberrant or hybrid specimens. An unconfirmed sighting was apparently reported in 2007 at the Tana River Delta.
Zosteropidae–white-eyes. Probably belong in Timaliidae.
Marianne white-eye, Zosterops semiflavus (Marianne Island, Seychelles, late 19th century)
Robust white-eye, Zosterops strenuus (Lord Howe Island, Southwest Pacific, c.1918)
White-chested white-eye, Zosterops albogularis (Norfolk Island, Southwest Pacific, between 2006 and 2010)
Only one reliable record since 1956, in 1995, leaves the species' survival seriously in doubt.
Raiatea starling, Aplonis? ulietensis (Raiatea, Society Islands, South Pacific, between 1774 and 1850)
Formerly called the bay thrush (Turdus ulietensis); a mysterious bird from Raiatea now only known from a painting and some descriptions of a (now lost) specimen. Its taxonomic position is thus unresolvable at present although, for biogeographic reasons and because of the surviving description, it has been suggested to have been a honeyeater. However, with the discovery of fossils of the prehistorically extinct Huahine starling (Aplonis diluvialis) on neighboring Huahine, it seems likely that this bird also belonged to this genus.
Tentatively assigned to Sturnidae. The bird that was variously described as Necropsar leguati or Orphanopsar leguati and was considered to be identical with N. rodericanus (which itself is known only from subfossil bones) was found to be based on a misidentified albino specimen of the grey trembler (Cinclocerthia gutturalis).
Officially classified as critically endangered because a possible location on Molokaʻi remains unsurveyed. Three subspecies are known from Oahu (M. l. woahensis, extinct 1850s), Lanaʻi (the nominate subspecies M. l. lanaiensis, extinct early 1930s) and Molokaʻi (M. l. rutha, extinct 1980s?) and there may be a possible fourth subspecies from Maui (extinct before the late 19th century).
Cozumel thrasher, Toxostoma guttatum (Cozumel, West Indies, early in the first decade of the 21st century?)
It is still unknown whether the tiny population rediscovered in 2004 survived Hurricanes Emily and Wilma in 2005. There have also been unconfirmed records in April 2006 and October and December 2007.
Officially classified as critically endangered, this was once the most widespread species of all of the Hawaiian honeycreepers. It has not been reliably recorded since either 1987 or 1989.
Kona grosbeak, Chloridops kona (Big Island, Hawaiian Islands, 1894)
Officially classified as critically endangered. It is known only from a single male collected in 1823 and has variously been considered either an aberrant specimen of the yellow-bellied seedeater (Sporophila nigricollis) or a hybrid.
Bermuda towhee, Pipilo naufragus (Bermuda, West Atlantic, 17th century?)
Known from subfossil bones and possibly from a travel report by William Strachey in 1610.
The extinction of subspecies is a subject very dependent on guesswork. National and international conservation projects and research publications such as red lists usually focus on species as a whole. Reliable information on the status of vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered subspecies usually has to be assembled piecemeal from published observations, such as regional checklists. Therefore, the following listing contains a high proportion of bird taxa that may still exist, but are listed here due to any one of, or any combination of, these three factors: absence of recent records, a known threat such as habitat destruction, or an observed decline.
Yet another island dwarf subspecies of the emu; the last wild bird was collected in 1845, but it may have survived in captivity until 1884. It may be invalid.
Bering cackling goose, Branta hutchinsii asiatica (Commander and Kuril Islands, N Pacific, c.1914 or 1929)
A formerly recognised subspecies of the cackling goose (formerly called the Bering Canada goose (Branta canadensis asiatica)) which was not distinct from the similar-looking and still-existing Aleutian cackling goose (B. h. leucopareia) and is now considered to be invalid.
Rennell Island teal, Anas gibberifrons remissa (Rennell Island, Solomon Islands, c.1959)
A doubtfully distinct subspecies of the Sunda teal which disappeared due to predation on ducklings by introduced Mozambique tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus).
A subspecies of the cinnamon teal known only from a restricted area in the Cordillera Occidental of Colombia, with a couple of records from Ecuador. It was discovered in 1946 and thought to have become extinct by 1956.
This island subspecies of the gadwall was discovered and named in 1874 after two birds were shot and has not been recorded since, with none found by a 1924 expedition from Honolulu's Bishop Museum.
New Mexico sharp-tailed grouse, Tympanuchus phasianellus hueyi (New Mexico, North America, 1950s)
A subspecies of the sharp-tailed grouse last recorded in Colfax County in 1952.
Moroccan helmeted guineafowl, Numida meleagris sabyi (Morocco, mid- to late 20th century?)
A subspecies of the helmeted guineafowl. Reportedly still kept in captivity in Morocco in the late 1990s. Possibly extinct in the wild by 1950; three records from the 1970s may refer to feral-domestic hybrids.
Another subspecies of the common buttonquail; it has not been recorded since the 1950s, but there have been few surveys and it may still exist.
New Caledonia painted buttonquail, Turnix varius novaecaledoniae (New Caledonia, Melanesia, early 20th century?)
A subspecies of the painted buttonquail that has been variously considered anything from a hybrid between introduced species to a distinct species. Plentiful subfossil bones indicate that it was indeed a good endemic form. The last specimen was taken in 1912 and surveys since then have failed to record it.
Raoul Island banded rail, Hypotaenidia philippensis ssp. (Raoul, Kermadec Islands, Southwest Pacific, late 19th century?)
Reports of the former occurrence of the species on Raoul seem to be plausible enough, but they may refer to vagrant individuals of another subspecies of the buff-banded rail.
Jamaican wood rail, Amaurolimnas concolor concolor (Jamaica, West Indies, late 19th century)
The nominate subspecies of the uniform crake declined rapidly and became extinct following the introduction of the small Indian mongoose (Urva auropunctata) to Jamaica in 1872.
A doubtfully distinct subspecies of the bare-eyed rail known from a single specimen, c. mid-19th century, either from the Solomon Islands or New Ireland. The taxon may still exist.
Bornean Baillon's crake, Zapornia pusilla mira (Borneo, 20th century?)
A subspecies of Baillon's crake known from a single 1912 specimen and not found since; it may be extinct, but the species is hard to find.
Moroccan bustard, Ardeotis arabs lynesi (Morocco, late 20th century?)
A subspecies of the Arabian bustard. Last observed in 1993 at Lac Merzouga / Lac Tamezguidat.
Luzon sarus crane, Antigone antigone luzonica (Luzon, Philippines, late 1960s)
A subspecies of the sarus crane which is not always accepted as valid by all authorities, possibly because the existing specimens have not been thoroughly studied since it was first described.
This subspecies of the metallic pigeon is only known from a footnote in John Latham's General History of Birds and seems to have become extinct some time before 1800; possibly, however, the location is erroneous and the footnote really refers to the still-existing population on Fiji.
A subspecies of the pink pigeon, formerly in Streptopelia. There seems to have been at least another species of pigeon on Réunion (probably a blue pigeon species), but bones have not yet been found. It became extinct at the same time as this subspecies did.
This subspecies of the Malagasy turtle dove survived until at least 1974, after which it was hybridised out of existence through crossbreeding with the introduced nominate subspecies (N. p. picturatus).
Catanduanes bleeding-heart, Gallicolumba luzonica rubiventris (Catanduanes, Philippines, late 20th century?)
A subspecies of the Luzon bleeding-heart known from a single specimen collected in 1971. There have been recent reports of this bird and, as much of its forest habitat still remains, it is likely that it may still exist.
A subspecies of the Mindanao bleeding-heart last reported in 1925 and, given the massive habitat destruction, is likely extinct.
Vella Lavella ground dove, Pampusana jobiensis chalconota (Vella Lavella, Makira and Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, late 20th century?)
A subspecies of the white-breasted ground dove or possibly a distinct species. Known from only four specimens; there are no recent records and the natives report that it has disappeared.
This subspecies of the Polynesian ground dove, often referred to as P. e. pectoralis, became extinct at an undetermined date, but it may still exist on some unsurveyed atolls. The identity of the northern Tuamotu population, which may also possibly still exist, is undetermined to date.
Ebon crimson-crowned fruit dove, Ptilinopus porphyraceus marshallianus (Ebon?, Marshall Islands, late 19th century?)
A subspecies of the crimson-crowned fruit dove of doubtful validity known from a single specimen collected in 1859; it is not certain whether or not this bird actually did occur on Ebon. All that can be said is that this subspecies is no longer found anywhere.
Mauke fruit dove, Ptilinopus rarotongensis "byronensis" (Mauke, Cook Islands, mid- or late 19th century)
A subspecies of the lilac-crowned fruit dove known only from the description of a now-lost specimen. The prehistorically extinct population on Mangaia likely belongs to another distinct subspecies also.
Negros spotted imperial pigeon, Ducula carola nigrorum (Negros and probably Siquijor, late 20th century?)
Norfolk pigeon, Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae spadicea (Norfolk Island, Southwest Pacific, early 20th century)
A subspecies of the kererū or New Zealand pigeon not recorded since 1900. Similar birds were reported from Lord Howe Island; these seem to represent another extinct subspecies, but are undescribed to date.
Greater crested coua, Coua cristata maxima (southeastern Madagascar, late 20th century?)
A subspecies of the crested coua, known only from a single specimen taken in 1950. It may be a hybrid but if it is not, it is probably extinct.
Assumption Island coucal, Centropus toulou assumptionis (Assumption Island, Seychelles, early 20th century)
A subspecies of the Malagasy coucal last recorded in 1906. It is sometimes considered synonymous with the Aldabra subspecies (C. t. insularis) which has since recolonized Assumption Island.
Cabo San Lucas groove-billed ani, Crotophaga sulcirostris pallidula (Mexico, c.1940)
A weakly differentiated and probably invalid subspecies of the groove-billed ani.
A subspecies of the Puerto Rican owl of somewhat doubtful validity, which occurred on several of the Virgin Islands. The last reliable records were in 1860; there were a number of unconfirmed reports during the 20th century, but it was not found in thorough surveys in 1995.
A subspecies of the elf owl officially classified as critically endangered. The last specimen was taken in 1932, but there was apparently still a large population in 1958; it was not found in subsequent searches and it appears to have become extinct.
Antiguan burrowing owl, Athene cunicularia amaura (Antigua, St. Kitts and Nevis, West Indies, c.1900)
A subspecies of the burrowing owl, last collected in 1890 and extinct by 1903.
Guadeloupe burrowing owl, Athene cunicularia guadeloupensis (Guadeloupe and Marie-Galante, West Indies, c.1890)
Another subspecies of the burrowing owl, extinct by 1890.
Lord Howe boobook, Ninox novaeseelandiae albaria (Lord Howe Island, Southwest Pacific, 1950s)
Norfolk boobook, Ninox novaeseelandiae undulata (Norfolk Island, Southwest Pacific, 1990s)
Individuals of the nominate subspecies of the Australian boobook were introduced in a last-ditch effort to save the local owl population. There now exists a hybrid population of a few dozen birds; the last certainly distinct individual of N. n. undulata, a female named Miamiti, died in 1996, though individuals descended from her remain.
Cave-nesting masked owl, Tyto novaehollandiae troughtoni (Nullarbor Plain, Australia, 1960s)
Doubtfully distinct from the nominate subspecies of the Australian masked owl, but differed behaviorally.
Buru masked owl, Tyto sororcula cayelii (Buru, Indonesia, mid-20th century?)
A subspecies of the Moluccan masked owl last recorded in 1921; the identity of a similar bird found on Seram remains to be determined. It may still exist, as an owl matching this bird's description was encountered in August 2006.
A subspecies of the Sulawesi masked owl or a distinct species. It may possibly still exist, but the only known specimen was taken in 1938 and there have been no further records since then.
Samar bay owl, Phodilus badius riverae (Samar, Philippines, mid-20th century)
A subspecies of the Oriental bay owl or a possibly distinct species. Its taxonomy is doubtful, but the only known specimen was lost in a 1945 bombing raid, so its validity cannot be verified; no population exists on Samar today.
This subspecies of the indigo-capped hummingbird is only known from a specimen collected in Costa Rica in 1895. It is likely to have become extinct since then.
Alejandro Selkirk firecrown, Sephanoides fernandensis leyboldi (Alejandro Selkirk Island, Juan Fernández Islands, Southeast Pacific, 1908)
The nominate subspecies of Whitehead's swiftlet is only known from four specimens collected at Mount Data in 1895. Because of the lack of further records and massive habitat destruction, it is usually considered extinct. Given the size of the island, though, it may still exist.
Sangihe dwarf kingfisher, Ceyx fallax sangirensis (Sangihe, Indonesia, 1998?)
This subspecies of the Sulawesi dwarf kingfisher was last seen in 1997 but not during a thorough survey one year later; it is either close to extinction or already extinct. Sometimes it is said to occur on the Talaud Islands also, but this is erroneous.
Guadalcanal little kingfisher, Ceyx pusillus aolae (Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands,?)
There exist reports of locals that kingfishers–probably a subspecies of the chattering kingfisher (Todiramphus tutus) which is found on neighboring islands, but possibly vagrants from there–were found until around 1979 and there is a last record from 1984. Presently, no kingfishers are known to exist on Rarotonga.
Previously considered as a distinct species, then reclassified as a subspecies of the Guam kingfisher. Only seen once by scientists in 1887; the specimen taken is somewhat damaged, making identification by anything other than molecular analysis difficult. It is now thought likely that the specimen came from Guam, where the aforementioned species was distributed, rather than Miyako, which would make this subspecies invalid (it was declared invalid by the International Ornithological Congress in 2022).
This subspecies of the Madagascar pygmy kingfisher is only known from one specimen taken in 1974 in an area where most of its habitat had already been destroyed. However, there have been records of the species (or an uncertain subspecies) from near the type locality, suggesting it is likely that it may still exist.
A subspecies of the Visayan hornbill of somewhat uncertain taxonomic status (it was possibly a distinct species or possibly a color morph); the last confirmed report was in 1971 and it became extinct shortly thereafter.
Javan buff-rumped woodpecker, Meiglyptes tristis tristis (Java, Indonesia, c.1920?)
The nominate subspecies of the buff-rumped woodpecker became rare during the 19th century due to habitat destruction. The last confirmed record was in 1880, and it is now considered to be at least very rare.
Guadalupe red-shafted flicker, Colaptes auratus rufipileus (Guadalupe Island, East Pacific, c.1906)
A subspecies of the northern flicker (formerly considered to be a subspecies of the red-shafted flicker, as C. cafer rufipileus), it was last recorded in 1906 and not found again in both 1911 and 1922. It may be invalid. Recently, vagrant birds of a mainland red-shafted northern flicker subspecies (which one is unknown) have begun recolonizing the island as the habitat improved after the extirpation of feral goats.
Another subspecies of the white-mantled barbet, also considered extinct by some sources, but confirmed extant by researchers in Colombia.
Todd's jacamar, Brachygalba lugubris phaeonota (Brazil, late 20th century?)
A subspecies of the brown jacamar, or possibly a hybrid, a color morph or a distinct species. It may still exist, as it is only known from a remote and seldom-visited area.
Considered either a subspecies of the red kite, a distinct species, or a hybrid between the red and black kite (Milvus migrans), the validity of this taxon has recently been questioned on the basis of molecular analysis; however, hybridization and a confusing molecular phylogeny of red kite populations, coupled with the distinct phenotype of the Cape Verde birds, suggest that the taxonomic status of this form is far from resolved.
The nominate subspecies of the Nicobar sparrowhawk–a species which is itself currently classified as vulnerable–is possibly extinct. It was last reliably recorded in 1901 and, despite searches, has not been sighted after an unconfirmed record in 1977; however, the species is known for being very shy and a population may persist unrecorded.
Sangir red-and-blue lory, Eos histrio histrio (Sangir Archipelago, Indonesia, 1990s?)
The nominate subspecies of the red-and-blue lory was hybridised out of existence through crossbreeding with escaped captive individuals of its other still-existing subspecies, Challenger's red-and-blue lory (E. h. challengeri), with the last certainly distinct individuals disappearing in the 1990s or even much earlier than that.
Known only from a painting and descriptions; the nominate subspecies of the echo parakeet, with the other one being the still-existing Mauritius parakeet (P. e. echo).
Another subspecies of the black-faced pitta. Not found during recent searches; doubtful records from nearby islands, but it is also likely to have been overlooked.
A subspecies of the scale-throated earthcreeper; it is known only from two specimens taken in the early 1950s at Puno, Peru and has not been seen or found since. It may still exist, as there is no obvious reason why it should have become extinct.
A subspecies of the stripe-crowned spinetail known only from a few specimens and not recorded since the 1950s; it may be endangered or possibly extinct.
A subspecies of the giant antpitta (or possibly of the great antpitta, in which case it would be G. excelsa lehmanni) apparently not recorded since the 1940s. It may still exist in Puracé National Natural Park, where there is plentiful habitat remaining.
A subspecies of the brown-banded antpitta recently described from a specimen collected in 1878. It has not been recorded since, despite surveys at a number of likely locations.
A subspecies of the rufous bristlebird not recorded since 1940 despite a number of surveys since then, beginning in the 1970s.
King Island brown thornbill, Acanthiza pusilla archibaldi (King Island, Australia, likely extant)
A subspecies of the brown thornbill which has only been recorded about 10 times since its discovery and is considered extinct by some authorities. The latest record comes from 2002, suggesting a population is likely to still exist, but it is very rare.
Western pied currawong, Strepera graculina ashbyi (Victoria, Australia, 1927)
This subspecies of the pied currawong has been hybridised out of existence by crossbreeding with other subspecies, which probably came into contact with it following habitat destruction in the 1830s. The last certainly distinct individuals were recorded in 1927.
Negros celestial monarch, Hypothymis coelestis rabori (Negros and possibly Sibuyan, Philippines, late 20th century?)
A subspecies of the celestial monarch; not uncommon on Negros in 1959, but not recorded since then. A single Sibuyan specimen from an unspecified locality taken in the 19th century is the only record for this island.
Hiva Oa monarch, Pomarea mendozae mendozae (Hiva Oa and Tahuata, Marquesas, late 20th century)
The nominate subspecies of the Marquesas monarch which was very rare by 1974 and not found during multiple surveys in the 1990s.
Maros cicadabird, Edolisoma tenuirostre edithae (Sulawesi, mid-20th century)
A subspecies of the common cicadabird known from a single specimen collected in 1931; quite possibly just a vagrant individual.
Cebu blackish cuckooshrike, Edolisoma coerulescens altera (Cebu, Philippines, 20th century?)
A subspecies of the blackish cuckooshrike; it may still exist, as this bird is rather unmistakable, and a 1999 record is therefore likely to be valid, though surveys since then have failed to record it.
Another subspecies of the blackish cuckooshrike; described from specimens collected in 1971, but apparently not seen since then. As few ornithologists have visited Marinduque and forest remains on the island, it is likely that it may still exist.
A subspecies of the dark-throated oriole not confirmed since 1906, though there were unconfirmed reports c. 2001, suggesting a possibility that it may still exist.
A distinct local white-with-black-markings and light brown-billed color morph of the North Atlantic raven, a subspecies of the common raven, found only on the Faroe Islands and not seen since 1902. Birds currently living on the Faroe Islands and on Iceland (the only other area in this subspecies' range) are all-black and black-billed; this still-existing color morph is named Corvus corax varius morpha typicus.
Jamaican golden swallow, Tachycineta euchrysea euchrysea (Jamaica, West Indies, c.1990?)
The nominate subspecies of the golden swallow; endemic to Jamaica. The last major roost site was destroyed in 1987 and the last confirmed sighting was in 1989. It may still exist in the Cockpit Country.
Cettiidae–cettiid warblers or typical bush warblers
Babar stubtail, Urosphena subulata advena (Babar, Indonesia, extant)
A subspecies of the Timor stubtail that has been considered extinct, but was recorded as common on Babar in 2009 and 2011.
Western Turner's eremomela, Eremomela turneri kalindei (Congo Basin, Africa, late 20th century?)
The West African subspecies of Turner's eremomela has not been recorded since the end of the 1970s, but there is unsurveyed habitat in its range where it is likely that it may still exist. Its placement in Cettiidae requires confirmation.
Acrocephalidae–acrocephalid warblers or marsh warblers, tree warblers and reed warblers
Oral tradition and some early reports mention a bird called the annañ which inhabited some of the Marshall Islands. The best match is the Nauru reed warbler; the annañ might have been an undescribed subspecies of that species or a distinct but related species of reed warbler.[8]
Laysan millerbird, Acrocephalus familiaris familiaris (Laysan, Hawaiian Islands, late 1910s)
A subspecies of the long-legged thicketbird; it was found only once, but there was an unconfirmed sighting in 1990, suggesting that it may still exist. Its placement in Sylviidae is doubtful.
The nominate subspecies of Jerdon's babbler was last confirmed in 1941, but as there has been little fieldwork in its range and a possible sighting occurred in 1994, it is considered likely that it may still exist.
A subspecies of the white-browed crombec or possibly a distinct species. Restricted to the Lendu Plateau, it is probably rare, though unsurveyed forest remains where it is likely that it may still exist.
San Benedicto rock wren, Salpinctes obsoletus exsul (San Benedicto, Revillagigedo Islands, 1952)
A subspecies of the rock wren which became extinct c. 9:00 AM, August 1, 1952, when its island habitat was destroyed by a massive volcanic eruption.
Guadalupe Bewick's wren, Thryomanes bewickii brevicauda (Guadalupe Island, East Pacific, late 1890s?)
A subspecies of Bewick's wren. An extinction date of "1903" seems to be in error;[13] the last unquestionable record dates from 1897 and a thorough search in 1901 failed to record it.
A disputed subspecies of the Eurasian wren; it is known from a single specimen that may have been a vagrant individual and, therefore, it is possibly invalid.
Guadeloupe house wren, Troglodytes aedon guadeloupensis (Guadeloupe, West Indies, late 20th century?)
Found in 1914, 1969 and the 1970s; now very rare or already extinct. Its taxonomy is unresolved. A part of the house wren complex; other scientific names for it include T. musculus guadeloupensis and T. guadeloupensis.
Martinique house wren, Troglodytes aedon martinicensis (Martinique, West Indies, c.1890)
Last found in 1886. Its taxonomy is also unresolved. Another part of the house wren complex; other scientific names for it include T. musculus martinicensis and T. martinicensis.
Yet another subspecies of the island thrush. Birds surviving on Tanna, New Hebrides, are presently considered to be the same subspecies; however, given the fact that this species readily differentiates into subspecies and that the distance between Tanna and Lifou is considerable, the Tanna birds may belong to a different subspecies, in which case the Lifou thrush would be considered extinct.
Saint Lucia forest thrush, Turdus lherminieri sanctaeluciae (St. Lucia, West Indies, extant)
A subspecies of the forest thrush. It has been thought to be extinct, but it was recorded at Des Chassin in 2007.
Peleng red-and-black thrush, Geohichia mendeni mendeni (Peleng, Indonesia, mid-20th century?)
A subspecies of the black-eared ground thrush or possibly a distinct species; known only from two specimens, both from 1966. It is likely that it still exists in suitable habitat, but it could already be extinct.
A subspecies of the russet-tailed thrush known from a single specimen found in 1924. It could have been wiped out by introduced feral cats, but the island is poorly known and so it should not be presumed extinct yet.
Isle of Pines solitaire, Myadestes elisabeth retrusus (Isla de la Juventud, West Indies, 20th century)
A subspecies of the Cuban solitaire. The last confirmed records were in the 1930s, with unconfirmed reports in the early 1970s.
Southern star finch, Bathilda ruficauda ruficauda (Australia, 1995)
The nominate subspecies of the star finch last recorded in 1995 and not found during later searches in the 1990s. It is not known to survive in captivity.
Fringillidae–true finches and Hawaiian honeycreepers
San Benito house finch, Haemorhous mexicanus mcgregori (San Benito, East Pacific, c.1940s)
The nominate subspecies of the Maui ʻalauahio (or, more properly, the Maui Nui ʻalauahio), it was last recorded in 1937 and was certainly extinct by 1960.
Gonâve western chat-tanager, Calyptophilus tertius abbotti (Gonâve, West Indies, c.1980?)
A subspecies of the western chat-tanager last recorded in 1977 and probably extinct.
Samaná eastern chat-tanager, Calyptophilus frugivorus frugivorus (eastern Hispaniola, West Indies, late 20th century)
The nominate subspecies of the eastern chat-tanager; the last (unconfirmed?) record was in 1982 and concerted efforts to record it ever since have failed.
The (possibly invalid) nominate subspecies of the large ground finch collected by Charles Darwin in 1835; he gave no precise location for it. A similar bird was found in 1957, but no others have been seen since then.
Saint Kitts bullfinch, Melopyrrha portoricensis grandis (St. Kitts and (prehistorically) Barbuda, West Indies, 1930)
Todos Santos rufous-crowned sparrow, Aimophila ruficeps sanctorum (Islas Todos Santos, East Pacific, 1970s?)
A subspecies of the rufous-crowned sparrow once common but not recorded during surveys in the 1970s or since then.
Santa Barbara song sparrow, Melospiza melodia graminea (Santa Barbara Island, North America, late 1960s)
A subspecies of the song sparrow last seen in 1967; it became extinct due to a severe wildfire in 1959 and subsequent predation by feral cats. Officially declared extinct by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service in 1983.
Dusky seaside sparrow, Ammospiza maritima nigrescens (Florida, North America, late 1980s)
A subspecies of the seaside sparrow last recorded in the wild in 1987.
Guadalupe spotted towhee, Pipilo maculatus consobrinus (Guadalupe Island, East Pacific, c.1900)
Fuller, Errol (2000): Extinct Birds (2nd ed.). Oxford University Press, Oxford, New York. ISBN0-19-850837-9
Gutiérrez Expósito, Carlos; Copete, José Luis; Crochet, Pierre-André; Qninba, Abdeljebbar and Garrido, Héctor (2011): "History, status and distribution of Andalusian Buttonquail in the WP". Dutch Birding33 (#2): 75–93.
