ʻIo (Hawaiian Hawk)

ʻIo (Hawaiian Hawk)
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The only hawk endemic to the Hawaiian islands, ʻio (Buteo solitarius) is a symbol of royalty in Hawaiian culture. Fossils show that ʻio once existed on Molokaʻi and Kauaʻi, however, now it can only be found on Hawaiʻi Island. Listed as endangered on the Endangered Species Act, ʻio populations have remained relatively stable; however, habitat loss, invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.

Learn more about invasive species , and illegal shooting still remain treats to this magnificent bird.

Learn more about ʻio and its journey towards recover.

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Type of document
Fact Sheet
Facility
An ʻakikiki sits on a branch. It is bending over, giving an upside-down look.
Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office
Welcome to the Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office! We are part of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's ecological services program. Here we work closely with partners to conserve fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats throughout Pacific Islands. The areas we help to protect include the...
Conservation Office
Honolulu,HI
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Public Domain
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Elevated view of Columbia Gorge, with the river and mountains in the distance, seen between foreground evergreens.
The Pacific Region is committed to collaborating with our numerous partners, including Tribes and state, local and federal agencies, Native Hawaiians, and Indigenous Pacific Island communities.
Program
Portland,OR
Species
A Hawaiian hawk sits perched under a blue sky

This graceful bird of prey measures 16 to 18 inches in length, the female being larger. Two color phases exist: a dark phase (dark brown head, breast, and underwings), and a light color phase (dark head, light breast and light underwings). Feet and legs are yellowish in adults and greenish in...

FWS Focus
Species
Kingdom
Animalia
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Species
Ecosystem
Forest
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Birds