Eradication of the mongoose is crucial for the conservation of three endemic bird species in Yambaru, Okinawa Island, Japan

Abstract Okinawa Island, Japan, is a globally important biodiversity hotspot. Three endemic bird species, rail ( Hypotaenidia okinawae ), woodpecker Dendrocopos noguchii and robin Larvivora namiyei are found only in the Yambaru region of northern part Island. In order to conserve it determine effect alien species on species. We conducted playback surveys four times every three years from 2007 2016 evaluate recent distribution these forest-dwelling during breeding season. Then, association between numbers detections with invasive mongoose density hardwood forest area was evaluated generalized additive mixed model (GAMM). The results showed that areas have been recovering since within small Indian Urva auropunctata ) controlled area. GAMM were abundant fewer mongooses larger forests. Thus, had negative impact not flightless rails but also woodpeckers robins. years, most old-growth forests designated as protected forests, large-scale logging no longer taking place Yambaru. Eradication particularly for conservation