São Tomé Fiscal Shrike
One of the big four! This individual was the first one to be seen alive since Correia collected his specimens in 1928/29. It was caught in August 1990 by members of the University of East Anglia São Tomé Expedition. Expecting a typical Fiscal with a white belly, members of this expedition were very surprised when it turned out to have a lemon-yellow wash over its underparts - presumably the reason Correia called it 'yellow-balle flycatcher' [yellow belly]! All known museum specimens have faded to white. Unfortunately, the flash has burnt out the yellow in this picture as well!
Since this first sighting there have been several more, all in the small area of lowland primary forest in the south of São Tomé.
São Tomé Short-tail
(right and below)
The second of the four rare primary forest endemics. This individual was the first Short-tail to be seen since Correia collected c. 14 specimens in 1928/29. This individual and others were found along the Rio Xufexufe and Io Grande in August 1990 and it has since been found along the Rio Quija. They are most common in riparian areas in lowland primary forest where they spend much of their their time foraging for small invertebrates around boulders, gravel beds and mossy boulders.
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Given the scarcity of its habitat, only a few hundred pairs of this species must remain on São Tomé.
São Tomé Paradise Flycatcher
One of the common endemics. This female is very different to the jet-black male. These flycatchers are found in all forested areas including plantations with shade trees and dry forest in the north of São Tomé.
The highest densities of this endemic occur in traditionally managed plantations and is very sensitive to removal of shade trees and the widespread applications of pesticides.
São Tomé Prinia
São Tomé Prinias are one of the most common endemics on the islands. They occur in the city and villages and also in plantations. Very few occur in tall forest although small numbers can be found in the scrub surrounding rivers.
Harlequin Quail
Sub-species endemic to São Tomé. Inhabits the savannas in the north and east of São Tomé where its distinctive call is often heard.
This striking bird is easily seen along tracks and in clear areas in the savanna. It is often hunted for food.
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São Tomé SpeiropsA common endemic found in all forested habitat. |
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São Tomé ThrushA common endemic found in gardens, plantations and in forest. The Príncipe race of this species was thought to be extinct until recently (see pictures elsewhere on this website). Evidence of its continued existence was proved through the finding of anvil sites and birds have now been seen in Principe's little remaining primary forest. |
Mantis sp.- endemic to São Tomé?
Not a bird but an impressive looking insect!
