Amid the tropical splendor of Hawaii, with its lush rainforests, rugged volcanic landscapes, and breezy shorelines, exists a fascinating presence of owls.
There are only two species on the hawaii island, the native Pueo, which are native birds, and the non native Barn Owl, each displays unique behaviors and adaptations honed to the specific demands of their island habitats. The native pueo holds a lof of importance for many hawaiian families where it is often considered as ancestral spirits.
Hawaii Owls
| Owl Species | Frequency in Hawaii | Presence in Hawaii | Where to Find in Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pueo (Hawaiian Short-eared Owl) | High | Statewide | Haleakala National Park, Maui; Waimea Valley, Oahu |
| Barn Owl | Moderate | Introduced, found on all major islands | Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, Big Island; Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge, Maui |
Note: The frequency level is subjective and is classified as High (very common), Moderate (common), Low (uncommon, but not rare), Very Low (rare), or Extremely Rare based on relative sightings in Hawaii. It’s worth mentioning that the only native species of owl in Hawaii is the Pueo. The presence of other owl species in Hawaii is mainly due to introductions or very rare migrations.
Owl Species Found in Hawaii
Where to Spot Hawaii’s Owls
Haleakala National Park, Maui: This park is a fantastic spot to see the Pueo, especially in the subalpine shrubland and grassland areas. The Pueo can be seen during daylight hours, which is unusual for most owl species.
Waimea Valley, Oahu: This nature park and botanical garden offer excellent birdwatching opportunities. The Pueo is often seen in the late afternoons hunting over open fields.
Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, Kauai: Another good spot for owl watching, this refuge located on a scenic ocean bluff is frequented by the Pueo, particularly around dusk.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island: The wide open grasslands in the park are ideal for spotting Pueo. Watch for them hovering or perching on fence posts in the late afternoon or early morning.
Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary, Maui: This sanctuary offers a chance to see the Pueo hunting over wetlands, especially during the late afternoons.
Tips on How to Spot Owls in Hawaii?
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Learn About the Pueo: The Pueo is the primary owl species you’ll encounter in Hawaii. They are medium-sized owls and are active during both the day and night. Familiarize yourself with their appearance and habits to increase your chances of spotting one.
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Daytime and Dusk Observations: Unlike many owl species, Pueo can often be seen hunting during daylight hours, especially around dawn and dusk. Scan open fields and grasslands during these times for the best chance to see one.
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Check Open Areas: Pueo can often be seen in grasslands, open fields, and lightly forested areas. They are known to hover and swoop while hunting for prey. Some popular spots include the slopes of Haleakala on Maui and the Saddle Road area on the Big Island.
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Look for Signs: Keep an eye out for signs of owl activity. This might include owl pellets or even patches of worn-down grass that could indicate a Pueo nest.
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Respect Wildlife Regulations: Pueo are considered sacred by the native Hawaiian people and are protected under state law. Always observe from a distance, do not attempt to approach or feed owls, and respect any closed or restricted areas.
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Listen for Calls: Pueo have a variety of calls, including barks, screams, and hisses. Familiarizing yourself with these sounds can help you locate these owls, especially when visibility is low.
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Join a Local Bird Watching Group: Joining a local birding group can be very helpful. Local birders will be familiar with the most recent sightings and can offer tips specific to the area.
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Equipment: A good-quality pair of binoculars is important for spotting and observing owls without disturbing them.