ʻIo (Hawaiian Hawk)

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.