Endangered Species of the Month (July)

Marianas Swiftlet

Name: Marianas Swiftlet

Chamorro Name: Chachaguak

Scientific Name: Aerodramus bartschi

Found on: The Marianas Swiftlet can’t be found anywhere else in the world, but here in the CNMI’s islands of Saipan and Aguiguan. They live only in limestone caves. They build their nests along the walls of the caves. The Swiftlet are sensitive to any disturbances, whether it is visits from cavers or tourists, or even other animals like rats or cocroaches. Any disturbance can break up their flock and may leave them stranded.

Status: Endangered

Facts: Swiftlets are small black to dark grey birds, with a slightly lighter colored chest area. They have long, narrow wings to help them fly quickly. They have a dark line through their eye, and a square shaped tail. Swiftlets use a special technique that helps them find their way out of limestone caves in the dark, which is where they nest. They make a very fast clicking sound that bounces off the walls in the caves which helps them maneuver around. This technique is called “echolocation”.

I and I Exposed!

 In the Red Room

Early one morning when I finally found the entrance to KKMP, I walked through the doors past the reggae themed walls only to find myself alone.  Where am I to go?  Which door do I open?  Then Mr. Joe limes more commonly known as Uncle Joe on the air, pops out of the studio and kindly invited me in.  So there I was in the famous "Red Room" greeted by Gary Sword and Rosemond Santos who usually does the morning shows.  I thought to myself, Wow!  This is the kind of studio I would love to have one day for future musical ventures.  I was told to grab a seat and slap on some headphones and that's when I realized, hundreds maybe even thousands of people could be listening right now!  I broke a sweat thinking about something clever to say, waiting anxiously for that introduction by Gary or Rosemond.  Luckily, it wasn't time yet, but at least I got a feel for the radio now.  We took a short break for introductions and we jumped right into it.  My heart was pounding, I could just feel the listeners, and before you know it we were off.  I went on about what is the Micronesia Challenge and the projects that I've been working on.  Out of the blue, Lisa Eller pops in; my internship supervisor/mentor.  Yes!  She is going to be on the air with me.  She put on headphones, and listened carefully to catch anything controversial I might blurt out.  Although she didn't speak on air, she gave me the support and confidence just being there.  Before I knew it, My face was dry, my heart was calm, and we were back again on I and I airwaves!!!  Click title to listen