Branta sandvicensis
The Nene, or Hawaiian Goose, is a striking, medium-sized goose endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, distinguished by its largely terrestrial adaptations. Adults measure 55-71 cm (22-28 in) in length, weigh 1.5-3 kg (3.3-6.6 lbs), and have a wingspan of 114-132 cm (45-52 in). Its most distinctive field marks include a black head and neck, buff-colored cheeks and upper neck, and deeply furrowed, diagonal black and white stripes on the neck, giving it a unique ruffed appearance. The body plumage is ...
Nene inhabit diverse upland ecosystems, including open shrubland, sparse grasslands, volcanic slopes, and lava flows, ranging from sea level to over 2,400 meters (8,000 feet) in elevation.
The Nene's diet consists mainly of grasses, sedges, leaves, flowers, seeds, and berries from a variety of native and introduced plants, obtained primarily through grazing and browsing.
Nene are primarily diurnal, spending their days foraging and resting, often roosting in open areas with good visibility. They are largely terrestrial grazers and browsers, methodically plucking grasses, leaves, and berries. During the breeding season, pairs establish and defend nesting territorie...
The Nene is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, primarily found on Hawaiʻi (the Big Island), Maui, Kauaʻi, and to a lesser extent, Molokaʻi. Historically, the species was present on all the main Hawaiian islands, but habitat loss and introduced predators led to severe population declines. Following ...
Vulnerable
- The Nene is the world's rarest goose species and the state bird of Hawaiʻi. - Its feet have reduced webbing, an adaptation to its largely terrestrial, lava-flow habitat, making it less aquatic than its mainland relatives. - Nene have a unique breeding season that runs from October to March, per...