In a landmark conservation effort,five Hawaiian crows,known as ‘alalā,were reintroduced to Maui on Wednesday. This marks teh first time thes intelligent and charismatic birds have been released on the island, signifying a crucial step in their journey back from the brink of extinction.
The ‘alalā, once found across the Hawaiian Islands, vanished from the wild on Maui in 2002. Habitat loss, invasive species, and disease decimated their population, leaving them clinging to survival on the Big Island.
“The translocation of ‘alalā to Maui is a monumental step forward in conserving the species and a testament to the importance of partnership in reversing biodiversity loss,” said Megan Owen, Ph.D., vice president of conservation science at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.
This momentous occasion is the culmination of years of dedicated work by a coalition of organizations, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife, and the University of Hawaii.
The five released birds,two females and three males,spent months at the Keauhou and Maui Bird Conservation Centers,forming strong social bonds. Experts from the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance meticulously evaluated their foraging skills, predator response, and overall health before deeming them ready for release.
“It means a lot to me to care for the ‘alalā,” said Keanini Aarona, avian recovery specialist at Maui Bird Conservation Center. “To me, and in my culture, the ‘alalā are like our ancestors — our kūpuna. the forest wouldn’t be there without these birds.”
Between 2016 and 2020, thirty ‘alalā were reintroduced to the Big Island’s Puu Makaala Natural Forest Reserve. While initial success was observed, the population began to decline, leading to a pause in reintroduction efforts. The remaining birds were returned to human care.
The reintroduction of ‘alalā to Maui offers renewed hope for the survival of this iconic species. Conservationists remain cautiously optimistic, closely monitoring the birds’ progress and working tirelessly to ensure their long-term success.
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