The Mariana Crow, locally known as "Aga," is experiencing a resurgence on Rota Island in the Northern Mariana Islands. As of May 2025, there are 70 breeding pairs, representing approximately 300 individual birds in the wild. This is a significant step toward removing the species from the endangered list.
Since 2017, the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and the University of Washington have collaborated to rear and release 90 captive-raised Mariana Crows. These efforts have led to high reproduction rates among the released birds. Some are now breeding in the wild.
The Mariana Crow, a glossy black bird about 15 inches long, is native to Guam and Rota. The population on Guam was decimated by the introduction of the brown tree snake. On Rota, habitat loss, predation, and disease have caused declines. The recent increase in breeding pairs offers hope for the species' future.
Community involvement is crucial for conservation. The Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands' annual Christmas Bird Count saw 48 volunteers participating in May 2025. This hands-on involvement strengthens community collaboration in protecting the islands' wildlife.
Challenges remain, including an inflammatory syndrome affecting young birds and the potential introduction of the brown tree snake. Conservationists are focused on habitat protection and community engagement to ensure the species' survival.