Crossword Genius

Small island bird’s beginning to disappear (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

inch

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'small island' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for inch that I've seen before include "1/12 of foot" , "make slow progress" , "Rare bird follower" , "See 12" , "Creep towards < island" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sunday Times.
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