‘Maunakea Speakers Series’ Begins Feb. 9

The Office of Maunakea Management (OMKM), in collaboration with ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center and University of Hawai‘i at Hilo Department of Physics & Astronomy, will present “Birds of Paradise Lost” on Thursday, Feb. 9 from 7 – 8 p.m. at UH Hilo.

The free talk will be presented by Dr. Rob Fleischer, senior scientist at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park. Dr. Fleischer will share his research on Hawai‘i’s native birds and how DNA methods are used to study evolution, population, diet and impacts by disease on indigenous species.

The presentation will be held at the UH Hilo Science & Technology Building auditorium (Room 108). On-campus parking is available without charge.

“Birds of Paradise Lost” is the inaugural presentation for a new monthly lecture series called Maunakea Speakers Series bringing accomplished scholars to Hilo to present on a variety of scientific topics including fauna, biodiversity, climate change, botany, geophysics and other subjects that relate to the study and cultural heritage of Maunakea.

“Our intent is to provide thought-provoking lectures and presentations while deepening our collective knowledge and understanding of the resources on Maunakea and strengthening educational opportunities —goals we all share,” said OMKM Director Stephanie Nagata.

For more information on the Maunakea Speakers Series, visit malamamaunakea.org or call (808) 933-0734.