Will five Hawaiian crows survive in the wild after decades of extinction?

In a significant conservation milestone, five Hawaiian crows, known locally as alala, were released on Maui, marking a pivotal moment in efforts to restore their population. These birds, which had been extinct in the wild since 2002, were previously found on Hawaii’s Big Island. This release symbolizes a restoration effort that follows years of preparation by various organizations, including the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Conservationists emphasize the historical depth of this project, as the alala are the last of all Hawaiian crow species. The alala were carefully chosen for release after spending months at conservation centers, where they developed social bonds and were evaluated for their ability to forage for food and respond to predators. This meticulous process reflects a comprehensive and collaborative approach to avian recovery. The release aims not only to boost the species' numbers but to reintegrate them into their native habitat on Maui, which has seen environmental challenges due to habitat loss and predation from introduced species. Keanini Aarona, an avian recovery specialist, highlighted the cultural significance of the alala, referring to them as ancestors in her tradition. This personal connection enhances the broader narrative of conservation, framing the alala as integral to the ecological and cultural landscape of Hawaii. Their presence is viewed as essential for maintaining the health of the forest ecosystem, further reinforcing the importance of biodiversity. Despite previous reintroduction attempts on the Big Island, during which thirty birds were released between 2016 and 2020, the overall population began to decline, necessitating a pause in these efforts. As the remaining alala returned to human care, conservationists have become more vigilant in addressing the challenges that these birds face in the wild. The commitment to identifying and mitigating the threats that have led to the alala's extinction in the wild is pivotal in this ongoing conservation initiative, and the recent release is a hopeful step towards reversing the species' decline.