The manumea, also known as the tooth-billed pigeon (Didunculus strigirostris), has been sighted for the first time since 2020. The observations, made in October and November near Uafato on Samoa’s island of Upolu, were the result of an international collaboration and local Samoan knowledge.
Manumea Sighting Confirms Continued Existence
Island species are particularly vulnerable to extinction when exposed to new threats, a fate the manumea risks sharing with the dodo, its closest relative. Samoan environmentalists have sought the manumea for years, lacking the resources for a systematic search until recently.
Funding from Colossal Biosciences, known for its de-extinction projects, was redirected to support the conservation of the manumea and other related species. This funding has aided in the search efforts and provided crucial resources.
In November, the Samoa Conservation Society announced the sightings on their Facebook page, noting that multiple team members observed the bird, though capturing a photograph proved difficult due to its swift movements. Despite the lack of photographic evidence, the team is confident in the validity of the sightings.
The sightings were anticipated following the Samoa Conservation Society’s success in recording and identifying the manumea’s unique call using artificial intelligence. A visiting birdwatcher had also reported a sighting the previous year.
Colossal Biosciences’ de-extinction program, while facing criticism, has had the positive effect of channeling funds into the protection of species related to those targeted for revival. Protecting these near relatives builds knowledge applicable to the potential reintroduction of extinct species.
The Samoa Conservation Society also acknowledged the contributions of Birdlife International, two zoos, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s Pigeon and Dove Specialist Group, and the Samoan Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Support also came from the Uafato community, rangers, field assistants, and international volunteers.
The manumea is Samoa’s national bird, recognized for its role in seed dispersal due to its ability to consume and spread large seeds. Once common until the 1980s, the species has experienced a rapid decline due to invasive species, habitat loss, and climate change.
Recent years have seen a global increase in extinctions, with several bandicoot species declared gone in 2025. However, the rediscovery of the manumea, along with the flat-headed cat, demonstrates that extinction is not always inevitable.
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