Rück's Blue Flycatcher in Sumatra: Current Status and Conservation Needs

*Heri Tarmizi

Female Rück's Blue Flycatcher  source  https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/rubfly1/cur/introduction

Male  Rück's Blue Flycatcher source  https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/rubfly1/cur/introduction

The first specimen was collected in 1917, and the last confirmed sighting was in 1918 (Clement & Sharpe, 2020). Since then, there have been no confirmed sightings of Rück's Blue Flycatcher in the wild. The lack of recent data highlights the urgent need for targeted searches in potentially suitable habitats.

Introduction

Rück's Blue Flycatcher (Cyornis ruckii) is one of the most enigmatic and critically endangered birds in the world. Known from only a handful of specimens, this species has not been observed in the wild for over a century. This essay delves into the historical sightings of Rück's Blue Flycatcher, its current status, and the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect this elusive species.

Historical Sightings and Distribution

Rück's Blue Flycatcher is known from just four specimens collected in the early 20th century. These specimens were found in the Medan area of northeastern Sumatra, specifically in Tuntungan and Delitua. The first specimen was collected in 1917, and the last confirmed sighting was in 1918 (Clement & Sharpe, 2020). The precise locations where these birds were found were described as exploited or logged lowland forests at elevations of 150 m and 200 m. These areas are near the urban area of Binjai, on the outskirts of the large city of Medan. Since then, there have been no confirmed sightings of Rück's Blue Flycatcher in the wild. The lack of recent data highlights the urgent need for targeted searches in potentially suitable habitats.

Map distribuon of Ruck's blue flycather http://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/rucks-blue-flycatcher-cyornis-ruckii

Current Status

Rück's Blue Flycatcher is classified as Critically Endangered (CR) by BirdLife International and is listed under CITES Appendix II. The species is considered a restricted-range species, present only in the North Sumatran Lowlands Secondary Area (BirdLife International, 2020). However, the habitat in the Medan area has undergone significant changes, with no lowland forest remaining in the vicinity of the original collection sites. Additionally, the lack of depth in research on this species has contributed to the absence of new information and sightings (Clement & Sharpe, 2020).

The two undated specimens from Peninsular Malaysia are of doubtful origin and are thought to possibly be trade skins obtained from captivity. The scarcity of historical records and the absence of recent sightings suggest that Rück's Blue Flycatcher was always rare or scarce, further compounded by extensive habitat loss. One of the significant threats to this species is the conversion of its natural habitat into plantation areas, which has drastically reduced the available habitat for the species and made sightings even rarer (BirdLife International, 2020).

Conservation Needs and Strategies

Importance of Conservation

The conservation of Rück's Blue Flycatcher is crucial due to its critically endangered status and limited known range. As a species that has not been observed in the wild for over a century, it represents a unique part of the biodiversity of Sumatra. The protection of Rück's Blue Flycatcher can also have broader implications for the conservation of lowland forest habitats in Sumatra, benefiting other species that share its ecosystem.

Targeted Searches and Surveys

To locate any remaining populations of Rück's Blue Flycatcher, targeted searches should be conducted in lowland forests in North Sumatra. Potential areas for these searches include the Besitang region of Leuser and forested areas in Aceh. Surveys should be carried out during January to April, aligning with the collection dates of the known specimens (Clement & Sharpe, 2020). These efforts require collaboration with local communities, researchers, and conservation organizations to maximize the chances of success.

Habitat Protection and Restoration

Protecting and restoring lowland forest habitats in Sumatra is essential for the survival of Rück's Blue Flycatcher. Efforts should focus on preventing further deforestation and habitat degradation in key areas. Restoration projects can help rehabilitate degraded forests, providing suitable habitats for Rück's Blue Flycatcher and other species. Establishing protected areas and improving the management of existing ones can also enhance habitat conservation.

Research and Monitoring

Ongoing research and monitoring are vital to understanding the ecology and behavior of Rück's Blue Flycatcher. Since little is known about its diet, foraging habits, vocalizations, and breeding, studies in these areas can provide valuable insights (Clement & Sharpe, 2020). Monitoring programs can track changes in the population and habitat conditions, informing adaptive management strategies.

Legal Protection and Awareness

Rück's Blue Flycatcher has been protected under Indonesian law since 1972. Strengthening the enforcement of these legal protections is critical to prevent illegal activities such as logging and land conversion in its potential habitats. Raising awareness about the importance of conserving Rück's Blue Flycatcher among local communities and stakeholders can garner support for conservation efforts and encourage sustainable practices (BirdLife International, 2020).

Conclusion

Rück's Blue Flycatcher is a critically endangered bird species with a highly restricted and poorly understood range. The lack of recent sightings, significant habitat loss, and inadequate research underscore the urgent need for targeted conservation efforts. By conducting focused searches, protecting and restoring habitats, and enhancing research and monitoring, we can hope to rediscover and safeguard this elusive species for future generations.

References

BirdLife International. (2020). Species factsheet: Cyornis ruckii. Retrieved from [BirdLife International] https://www.birdlife.org 

Clement, P., & Sharpe, C. J. (2020). Rück's Blue Flycatcher (Cyornis ruckii), version 1.0. In J. del Hoyo, A. Elliott, J. Sargatal, D. A. Christie, & E. de Juana (Eds.), Birds of the World. Cornell Lab of Ornithology. https://doi.org/10.2173/bow.rubfly1.01