Conservationists have taken a significant step in the ongoing effort to revive the Hawaiian crow population by releasing five of these birds on Maui for the first time. The Hawaiian crows, also known as alala, were previously only found on Hawaii's Big Island but became extinct in the wild in 2002 due to various threats such as habitat loss, predation, and disease by introduced species.
The release of the alala on Maui marks a crucial milestone in the conservation of this species. The birds, known for their intelligence and charisma, are the last surviving members of all Hawaiian crow species. The translocation of these birds to Maui is a collaborative effort involving organizations and agencies such as the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife, and the University of Hawaii.
Prior to their release, the five alala underwent months of preparation at the Keauhou and Maui Bird Conservation Centers to establish strong social bonds. The birds were evaluated based on their foraging skills, response to predators, and overall health by a team of experts, including veterinarians.
One of the avian recovery specialists involved in caring for the alala expressed the cultural significance of these birds, referring to them as ancestors or 'kupuna.' The specialist emphasized the vital role that alala play in maintaining the forest ecosystem.
Between 2016 and 2020, thirty alala were reintroduced in the Big Island's Puu Makaala Natural Forest Reserve. While initial efforts showed promise, a decline in alala numbers led to a pause in reintroduction activities, prompting the return of the remaining birds to human care.
The release of the five alala on Maui represents a renewed commitment to the conservation and restoration of this critically endangered species, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in reversing biodiversity loss.
