Lord Howe Swamphen Porphyrio albus Scientific name definitions

Although sometimes considered conspecific with P. porphyrio (1 Livezey, B. C. (1998). A phylogenetic analysis of the Gruiformes (Aves) based on morphological characters, with an emphasis on the rails (Rallidae). Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (Series B) 353:2077–2151. Close ), present species had shorter and more robust legs and toes, a smaller bill and softer remiges and rectrices (2 Taylor, P.B. and van Perlo, B. (1998). Rails. A Guide to the Rails, Crakes, Gallinules and Coots of the World. Pica Press, Robertsbridge, UK. Close ). Monotypic.

Not uncommon when first discovered, in 1790, but no definite records since then. Was evidently extinct by the time when the island was settled, in 1834. Hunting by whalers and sailors led to its extinction, estimated date of which is taken as 1812.

Lord Howe I, E of Australia. Known from two skins (2 Taylor, P.B. and van Perlo, B. (1998). Rails. A Guide to the Rails, Crakes, Gallinules and Coots of the World. Pica Press, Robertsbridge, UK. Close ), several paintings, and some subfossil bones (3 Marchant, S., and P. J. Higgins, eds. (1993). Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds. Vol. 2. Oxford University Press, Melbourne. Close ).