Hurricane Lala leaves native birds injured, grounded across Hawaiʻi Island
Following Hurricane Lala, Hawaiʻi Island officials urge locals to exercise caution as they may encounter displaced or injured native birds.
6 hours ago
As Hawaiʻi Island begins recovering from Hurricane Lala and its transition to a tropical storm, wildlife officials are warning residents they may encounter native birds that were displaced, injured or grounded by the severe weather.
The Hawaiʻi Wildlife Center is caring for dozens of native wildlife patients affected by the storm and is asking the public to take precautions when encountering birds that may need assistance.
Native seabirds, including manu o Kū, or white terns, and ʻuaʻu kani, or wedge-tailed shearwaters, can be particularly vulnerable after periods of strong winds and heavy rain.
The center advises residents not to give an injured or grounded bird food or water.
If a bird is unresponsive, injured, or in an unsafe location — such as near a roadway or building — residents should use gloves or a lightweight towel to gently place it in a secure, ventilated box or carrier.
The bird should then be kept in a dark, cool, and quiet location, away from people, pets, and loud noises. Residents should note where and when the bird was found and contact the Hawaiʻi Wildlife Center at 808-884-5000 for assistance or information about approved drop-off locations.
The center is experiencing phone and internet outages following the storm. If staff cannot be reached, residents should leave a message with their contact information so wildlife personnel can return the call as soon as possible.
Not every bird found on the ground needs to be rescued. If a bird appears healthy and is near a nest, burrow, or other nesting area, residents should not automatically remove it. Some native birds remain near nesting areas without requiring human intervention.
“When in doubt,” wildlife officials advise, contact a wildlife professional before intervening.
The state Division of Forestry and Wildlife similarly advises the public to consider whether a bird actually needs rescue before attempting to handle it. Birds found unresponsive or in an unsafe location generally require assistance, while young birds near nesting areas may not.
Anyone handling a wild bird should use caution and wash and sanitize their hands, clothing, towels, and other materials afterward.
Residents looking for further information can click here.
