If you’re from Hawaii, you know there are different types of geese that live here.
And if you visit one of the nature reserves or parks, you’ll see just how many geese call Hawaii home.
But what do we know about these birds?
Let’s take a closer look at some of the different types of geese in the state of Hawaii.
What Geese Are in Hawaii?
There are seven types of geese in the state of Hawaii.
- Canada Goose
- Snow Goose
- Cackling Goose
- Greater White-Fronted Goose
- Emperor Goose
- Brant
- Nene or Hawaiian Goose
DOWNLOAD GEESE IN HAWAII ID CHART
Are There Any Resident Flocks of Geese In Hawaii?
The nene or Hawaiian goose is closely related to the giant Canada goose.
It is classified by both state and federal governments as endangered species and is the world’s rarest goose, with a population of a little over 2,000.
Formerly breeding of Hawaii’s state bird was done on all or most of the Hawaiian Islands but is currently restricted to Hawaii, Kauai, and Maui.
When Captain James cook first arrived in the Hawaiian Islands in 1778, the Hawaiian goose was quite common.
However, due to over-hunting, natural predators such as small Indian mongoose and feral cats that prey on young birds, habitat loss and severe ecosystem disturbances, the wild nene goose was on the brink of extinction with only 30 birds remaining in the wild.
Fortunately, thanks to conservation efforts, the nene goose population has rebounded and there are now more than 2,000 geese living in the wild.
The majority of nene live in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. Hawaiian Geese are often seen grazing on the grasslands near the park’s visitor center.
While the nene population is still at risk, it is encouraging to see these magnificent birds making a comeback in Hawaii.
Geese Hunting in Hawaii
Geese can be found in many different habitats in the Hawaiian Archipelago.
While they are sometimes considered to be pests, they are also popular with birdwatchers and are often seen in parks and near waterways.
While there is no hunting season for geese in Hawaii, it is legal to hunt them with a permit from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources.
However, permits are only issued for control purposes and not for recreation.
Conclusion on Geese in the State of Hawaii
If you’re looking for an interesting bird to watch while on your trip to Hawaii, be sure to keep an eye out for one of the seven types of geese that call the Aloha state home.
The Nene or Hawaiian Goose is the rarest and most interesting of all the geese in Hawaii