This multi-partner pilot release allows wildlife managers the opportunity to monitor and evaluate ʻalalā and its potential for survival and breeding in the forests of East Maui without risk of depredation by ‘io (Hawaiian hawk). The EA provides background information concerning methods for release of ‘alalā and outlines the proposed action, potential impacts, and strategies to avoid and minimize potential adverse impacts of the project on East Maui.
The Board of Land and Natural Resources on Friday approved plans by the DLNR, and US Fish and Wildlife Service to conduct a pilot release of captive-bred ʻalalā onto forest reserve lands in east Maui.
The released crows would come from a captive population of 120 birds housed at two conservation breeding facilities managed by the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance on Maui and the Big Island.