Ecology, abundance and distribution assessment of the endemic Rarotonga starling (Aplonis cinerascens)

Abstract

Aplonis cinerascens, or I’oi, an endemic Starling found on the island of Rarotonga, Cook Islands, was studied through field observations, literature review, questionnaire surveys and communication with knowledgeable individuals and research institutions. The Rarotongan species represents the most southerly and easterly extent in the range of the extant Aplonis genus. Previous research on the species has been ad hoc in manner. This study is the first attempt in dedicating research on I’oi, and aims to consolidate all currently available information in to one report, together with results of an investigation of the distribution, abundance, and ecology of the bird.