Sunday, December 21, 2008

Băi, neneeee...

The Nene (or Hawaiian) goose (Branta sandvicensis) is the state bird of Hawaii. The Nene in some ways resembles its closest living relative, the Canada goose (Branta canadensis) although the Nene is smaller in size, reaching lengths of 53cm-66cm (21in-26in). The Nene has yellow-buff cheeks and black feathers on the back of its neck, the top of its head, and its face. Diagonal rows of creamy-white feathers form deep furrows along its neck.

Males and females are similar in size and markings. The Nene's calls include a muted 'moo' and a loud 'haw'. Their breeding season, which is perhaps the longest breeding season of all gooses, extends from November until June with incubation lasting 30 days and the chicks fledging after 10 to 12 weeks. This extended breeding season contributes to the Nene's susceptibility to introduced predators, with mongooses, feral cats and dogs often feeding on Nene eggs and youngs.

Classification:

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Aves
  • Order: Anseriformes
  • Family: Anatidae
  • Genus: Branta
  • Species: Branta sandvicensis


Where to See:

The Nene goose is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. Wild populations are present on Hawaii (Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Loa, Pu'u Wa'awa'a), Maui (Haleakala National Park), and the lowlands of Kauai. Nenes inhabit grasslands, scrublands, and sparsely vegetaged slopes of Hawaii and Maui's volcanoes as well as the lowland areas of Kauai.

So... say ALOHAAA!!!

P.S. After this shot I had to leave... I'm not that violent kind of guy who jumps in a fight (especialy with food... just kiddin').

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

This bird is beautiful

Cristiana Laura Pantea said...

prima e foarte faina