The Raso Lark is one of the most
remote, understudied and endangered birds on the
planet. They live only on Raso Island, a part of
the Cape Verde Islands.
Food: Insect larvae, small insects, nutsedge bulbs
Raso Island is uninhabited by people. The Raso
Lark is probably still alive today due to this fact.
It is thought that the Raso Lark used to inhabit other islands,
when they were all attached during the last Ice Age.
Conservation
The total population of the Raso Lark
is estimated to be 70 birds. This is obviously a matter of great
concern. There is also about 2 males for every 1 female. Their
natural predator, the Cape Verde Giant Gecko has diminished
their population drastically. Starting a population of Raso
Larks on a similar and close island, Santa Luzia, may help their
numbers grow. Santa Luzia Island does not have any geckos.
