Guam (to USA) (E) (B), Northern Mariana Islands (to USA) (B), Palau (B).
Rarity Status
Currently this species is not classified as a rarity in this country OR information has not been updated.
Population
Estimated population is 2,000 - 2,500 (2010) and decreasing.
Status EN
Habitat degradation, predation by introduced species, human disturbance are the main threats.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Food
Omnivorous. Includes insects, crabs, plant material.
Voice
A loud 'keek'. Song is often a duet with one bird beginning a rising and accelerating 'keek-keek-keek-keek-' etc. culminating in a loud 'kee-keer-kew' (Palau) or 'keek-keer-keet' (Marianas), the other answering with a rising cackle that slows near the end.
Micronesian Megapode (Megapodius laperouse) [XC114482]
by James Bradley from Peleliu, Palau (call)
Micronesian Megapode (Megapodius laperouse) [XC66333]
by Todd Mark from Alamagan, Micronesia (duet, song)
Subspecies
Linked with Vanuatu Scrubfowl (Megapodius layardi) in past. Subspecies senex sometimes considered full species, mainly due to geographical isolation and differences in size and normal breeding habits.
The following 2 subspecies are recognised:
laperouse Gaimard, 1823 - Northern Mariana Is.
senex Hartlaub, 1868 - Palau Is.
Similar Species
Dark morphs of Red Junglefowl (Gallus gallus) (or feral domestic stock).
References
See References.
BirdLife International Species Factsheet