DNA sexing of weka (Gallirallus australis)

Abstract

Sexing morphometric birds is problematic, yet it is necessary for the conservation management of many such species, including the endangered weka (Gallirallus australis), a large fl ightless rail endemic to New Zealand. Weka are visually monomorphic and until now have only been sexed using behavioural and morphometric techniques (Beauchamp et al. 1999). Behavioural sexing is complicated as both male and female weka share the responsibility of nest building, egg incubation, and chick rearing. Likewise polygamy has been reported in weka (Guthrie-Smith 1914; Beauchamp 1986) as have same sex pair bonding in captivity (D. Emmerson, pers. comm.) and also in wild populations (A.J. Beauchamp, pers. comm.) ...