Endangered Species of the Month (September)

Name: Marianas Common Moorhen

Chamorro Name: Pulattat

Scientific Name: Gallinula chloropus guami

Status: Endangered

Facts: The Marianas Common Moorhen may look like a duck, but unlike ducks, this bird does not have webbed feet. It has yellow feet, and a red shield that goes from its beak to between its eyes. They are primarily black in color, with a white line of feathers on its wings and can grow to be around 14 inches in length.

These birds can be found in freshwater and natural wetlands. Their nests can be found all throughout the year, with each nest carrying up to six eggs. It was once believed that the Moorhen was once a common bird to see around the islands, but with wetland loss and predators like the brown tree snake being introduced; its population has declined a lot over the past three decades.

Micronesia Challenge Live on KKMP radio

Had the opportunity to be on air at KKMP radio station last week. I got to talk about what the Micronesia Challenge is, my endangered species project, and share my experiences as a young champion. Overall a great experience, with lots of laughs and good vibes!

Lao Lao Bay Intern Planting Event

Last week, I was able to take part of a planting event up in Lao Lao Bay, along with interns from the different environmental agencies such as Division of Fish and Wildlife (DFW), Coastal Resource Management (CRM), and the Division of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The purpose of the plants is to help prevent soil erosion and runoff of the different sediments that flow into Lao Lao bay, which end up killing our corals. Here are some pictures! It was an uphill hike on a hot day, but it was well worth the trip!

-David