New Faunal Records from a World Heritage Site in Danger: Rennell Island, Solomon Islands1

A recent survey of East Rennell, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Solomon Islands, uncovered four new vertebrate records for the island: Stephan's emerald dove, Maluku myotis, littoral skink, and brahminy blindsnake. This discovery highlights the potential for continued field studies combined with DNA analysis to reveal even greater endemic biodiversity on the island. The survey documented a total of 56 species, including squamates, mammals, and birds, underscoring the rich vertebrate diversity that could be lost due to ongoing habitat destruction outside protected areas. The findings emphasize the urgent need for conservation actions that integrate local community needs to protect this significant site.

Lavery, T. H., DeCicco, L. H., Richmond, J. Q., Tigulu, I. G., Andersen, M. J., Boseto, D., & Moyle, R. G. (2021). New Faunal Records from a World Heritage Site in Danger: Rennell Island, Solomon Islands1. Pacific Science, 75(3). https://doi.org/10.2984/75.3.8