Réunion July 2013, La Roche Ecrite

This is The site in Réunion for birders, for it is the only place in the world, where all land endemics of Réunion can be seen. Most of these can be seen throughout the entire island, but Reunion Cuckooshrike is confined to this single mountain and therefore the site is a must for birders. Most birders state that it is necessary to start the trail in the first light, because otherwise it will be rainy or misty or busy with hikers or all three of them. We however visited the island in July, so in winter, which turned out to be perfect. We started at 8:00 leisurely with researcher from SEOR, the weather was perfect all day, there were a few hikers, but not much and best of all: the cuckooshrike is not breeding. This means that tape can be used (in decent quantities) without disturbing this critically endangered species too much. Around 11:00 we found a responsive male near the first area that has been completely cleared of Cryptomeria japonica, an invasive tree species. There is a small sign next to the area stating that rats are the biggest threat to the cuckooshrike. We stood next to the sign and after a while a male Reunion Cuckooshrike preformed marvelously around us. We also saw all other land endemics at this site with ease, including a displaying male Reunion Harrier.

Male Reunion Cuckooshrike (Coracina newtoni)

Male Reunion Cuckooshrike (Coracina newtoni)

Even though I used tape to see the main attraction here, I would definitely refrain from using it in the breeding season, for there are only 33 pairs in the world and there are already enough factors interfering with their breeding success. With the last land endemic seen we finished our birding on this special island resulting in list of a staggering 13 species. When visiting Mauritius, which seems to be more well-known with birders, I highly recommend including Réunion into your itinerary. To be honest, I like Réunion more than Mauritius.