Throughout 2026, Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Venture is celebrating the ʻalae ʻula, or Hawaiian Common Gallinule (Gallinula galeata sandvicensis). There are just 712 of these waterbirds left. Although they are endemic to Hawaiʻi, they have been lost from all of the islands except Kauaʻi and Oʻahu.
In order to thrive, ‘alae ‘ula require healthy coastal wetlands, loʻi kalo (traditional taro patches that provide essential habitat), and protection from predators. People can help the ‘alae ‘ula and Hawaiʻi’s other endangered waterbirds by volunteering for wetland and lo‘i kalo restoration projects, watching out for birds when driving and golfing, keeping cats inside, and always walking dogs on a leash.
This year-long outreach effort is part of the Year of Our Coastal Kuleana, a Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources campaign encouraging Hawaiians to celebrate the rich diversity of life in Hawaiʻi’s coastal habitats. Pacific Birds will host several public events in 2026 to raise awareness for the ‘alae ‘ula.
Read more on the Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Venture website >>
Photo by Gary Kramer (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)
