Kaua'i Endangered Seabird Recovery Project

Threatened Newell’s Shearwaters are one of two seabird species endemic to the Hawaiian Islands and are found nowhere else on earth. They have declined dramatically due to a number of factors including predation by introduced predators (such as cats, rats, pigs and Barn Owls) and collisions with man-made structures during nocturnal flights from their breeding colonies in the mountains to the ocean where they search for food. Surrounded by fine mesh stainless-steel fencing, 6.5 feet high, the 7.8-acre enclosure at Nihokū protects the birds from predators and has been partially restored with native vegetation. Seabird-friendly nest boxes, specifically designed to mimic natural burrows, have been installed.