Conservation Timeline
The Journey of Nēnē Recovery
The story of the Nēnē's recovery is a testament to decades of dedicated conservation efforts. From near extinction in the mid-20th century to its current status as a conservation success story, explore the key moments that shaped the fate of Hawaii's state bird.
Nēnē Conservation Timeline
From near extinction to a conservation success story, explore the key moments in the recovery of Hawaii's state bird.
First Western Documentation
Nēnē population first recorded during Captain Cook's arrival in Hawaii.
Population Crisis
Dramatic population decline due to habitat loss, over-harvesting, and introduced predators like mongoose and feral cats.
Conservation Begins
Nēnē Restoration Project initiated with private propagation efforts as global population drops below 30 birds.
International Breeding Program
First international propagation efforts begin at Slimbridge, England, marking a crucial step in conservation.
Local Breeding Facility
Establishment of a propagation facility at Pōhakuloa on Hawai'i Island to support local conservation efforts.
Maui Reintroduction
Releases begin at Haleakalā National Park, Maui, using birds from Slimbridge and Hawai'i Island.
Federal Protection
Nēnē officially listed as Endangered under the Endangered Species Act.
Predator Identification
Mongooses and feral cats identified as major predators; roadkill becomes a significant concern.
Kaua'i Population Growth
Nēnē from Kipu Kai begin dispersing across Kaua'i, establishing new populations.
Enhanced Collaboration
Nēnē Recovery Action Group (NRAG) forms to coordinate conservation efforts among agencies.
HEBCP Partnership
Hawaiian Endangered Bird Conservation Program partnership begins between multiple conservation organizations.
Habitat Expansion
Kaua'i populations rise as sugar industry closures create new pastureland habitats.
Breeding Program Success
HEBCP propagation program ends after successfully releasing over 400 nēnē into the wild.
Innovation in Protection
"Rescue" pens introduced to improve gosling survival rates in the wild.
Conservation Milestone
Nēnē downlisted from Endangered to Threatened under the Endangered Species Act, marking significant recovery.
Data Sources
This timeline is compiled from historical records, scientific publications, and documentation from various conservation organizations including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, and the Nēnē Recovery Action Group (NRAG).