Hawaii State Bird
Nene (Hawaiian Goose)

• Official Hawaii State Bird: Nene
• Also Known As: Hawaiian Goose
• Family: Anatidae, Waterfowl
• Scientific name: Nesochen sandvicensis (Old name Branta sandvicensis)
• Length: 25" (64 cm)
• Diet: Plant-eater: seeds of grasses and herbs as well as leaves, buds, flowers and fruits of various native and non-native plants.
• Voice: A 2-syllable, high, nasal bark, nay-nay, similar to call of Canada Goose. Also a muted moo uttered when disturbed on the ground.
• Habitat: Inhabits rocky, sparsely vegetated, high volcanic slopes. Not usually observed near water, but will swim if a body of water such as a ranch pond is available.
• Number of broods: 2, rarely 3
• Nest: Concealed, downy nests under bushes and in cracks and crevasses on lava.
• Eggs: 2-5 white eggs
• Incubation period: 29-31 days
• Goslings: Flightless for 11-14 weeks after hatching
• Longevity Record: 18 Years and 11 months (according to USGS Bird Banding Lab)

The Nene, or Hawaiian Goose, is the Hawaii State Bird. Formerly abundant, the Nene nearly became extinct in the wild by 1951. A combination of over-hunting, habitat loss and predation by introduced species (such as mongooses, feral cats and dogs) has imperiled Hawaii's wandering goose. Under some of the first captive breeding efforts for an endangered species, the bird's extinction has been prevented. Using new information and techniques, this work has succeeded in establishing new populations of the Hawaii state bird, and some 1,100 Nene now inhabit Hawaii, Maui, Molokai and Kauai.

Birds of Hawaii

50 State Birds Main Page

Bird Watching Bliss Home Page

Favorite Bird Watching Binoculars, Feeder & Field Guide
Nikon Monarch's - Best Binoculars for Bird Watching Based on Quality & Price	Keeps Squirrels Out, No Batteries, Easy Adjustable Spring, Won Best New Product Award	Excellent Illustrations & Unique System For Easier Bird ID. Eastern/Central, Western & N.A. Editions
Click Images To View More Info