In a groundbreaking attempt to revive the endangered ʻalalā, or Hawaiian crows, researchers have taken a bold step by releasing five young birds into the wild on Maui. This species has been extinct in the wild for two decades, and with only about 110 remaining worldwide, this initiative carries immense hope for their future.
In past reintroduction efforts on the Big Island, hawks posed a significant threat, leading to the demise of many crows. To avoid this danger, the team has strategically shifted their focus to Maui, a safer environment where these glossy black birds may thrive.
Alison Greggor, an ecologist from the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, emphasized the responsibility held by these five crows, stating, “They are shouldering all of the hopes of their species.” In a bid to prepare the birds for survival, keepers previously employed tactics like playing hawk sounds and showcasing taxidermy to instill caution in the captive-raised crows.
So far, the efforts seem promising, and if these courageous birds can establish themselves on Maui, it could pave the way for a brighter future for the ʻalalā, ultimately aiming for their return to their original habitat on the Big Island.
