Our actions
The association seeks fundings, carries out actions on the ground and follows up over time. The choice of the actions is based on a strategy grounded in proven scientific knowledge.
The strategy
It is based on 4 pillars:
Pillar 1
Preventing the extinction of wildlife. Preserve and, if possible, improve the conservation status of all bird species.
Pillar 3
Preserve ecosystems that are vital for people’s livelihoods, and increase the quality of human life.
Pillar 2
Protect important sites and habitats for bird conservation and biodiversity.
Pillar 4
To give the population the means to act, in order to help reduce the precariousness of the islanders. Promote sustainable and respectful use of natural resources.
Monarque de Tahiti @Jean-Paul Mutz
Current Actions
Several species are in danger of extinction in French Polynesia (see the IUCN Red List-French Polynesia). MANU acts directly to prevent their extinction or to improve their status. The most affected species are the Tahiti and Fatu Hiva Monarchs, which are among the most threatened birds in the world. But actions are also carried out for the Polynesian Ground-dove, the Tuamotu Sandpiper, the Tuamotu Kingfisher and many others.
Photo Thomas Ghestemme – Juvenile of Fatu Hiva Monarch
Preservation of birds implies and allows the preservation of their entire ecosystems. This is why MANU rehabilitates or restores environments or even entire islands for the conservation of threatened species.
Photo Laurent Yan – Gambier Mission 2015
Some islands are free of black rats such as Ua Huka or Rimatara islands. They serve as last refuges for the Ultramarine Lorikeet and Kuhl’s Lorikeet (respectively listed as “CR” and “EN” on the IUCN Red List). The SOP works to keep these islands free from black rats. Awareness of the population is crucial to avoid new invasions or post-restoration contaminations.
Photo Caroline Blanvillain – Arrival of the rat detecto dog in Rimatara
This program involves carrying out communication and awareness-raising activities for the population. MANU has also created and coordinated a network of rescue volunteers. They collect and take care of seabirds in distress before releasing them in their natural environment.
Photo Fred Jacq – Tahiti Petrel Release
5- Studies and Field inventories Missions
The SOP conducts numerous studies and missions of ornithological inventories in all the islands of French Polynesia, even the most remote. This includes the logistical organization or the implementation on the ground. For her missions, the association is assisted by local and regional partners.
Photo Laurent Yan – Gambier Mission
MANU organizes and regularly participates in awareness campaigns for the general public and school students. The association also publicizes its programs with the media and organizes field trips.
Photo SOP Manu
