Together with staff from the Samoa Conservation Society, ministry representatives, local villagers, and Fijian bird expert Vili, I set out into one of Samoa’s most pristine forests in search of the Manumea – the tooth-billed pigeon (Didunculus strigirostris). This shy and elusive bird, Samoa’s national symbol, is critically endangered, with perhaps as few as 50 individuals left. The last confirmed photograph dates back to 2013, though occasional sightings are still reported.

Over six weeks of long hikes (up to 1,000 m elevation), we deployed camera traps and audio recorders in hopes of finding traces of this remarkable species. Unfortunately, no clear evidence was uncovered – though the audio recordings are still being carefully analyzed. Another expedition is already being planned, and we remain hopeful.

The Manumea is notoriously difficult to detect: it rarely calls, and when it does, its call closely resembles that of the common Pacific Imperial Pigeon (or Lupe). Fun fact: the tooth-billed pigeon is the closest living relative of the extinct, flightless dodo. Unlike its ancestor, however, the Manumea is a strong flier, easily recognized by its striking hooked bill.