Hawaii State Bird

Hawaii designated the Hawaiian Goose in 1957 because of it is Hawaii's own goose, a native bird that reflects the islands far better than any introduced mainland species could. It was a practical symbolic choice: familiar to residents, visible across much of the state, and easy to connect with local schools, gardens, farms, parks, or conservation culture.

Known locally as the nene, the Hawaiian Goose has a buff face, black crown, heavily streaked neck, and a sturdy goose profile adapted to volcanic landscapes. In Hawaii, it looks especially at home across volcanic slopes, upland grasslands, and protected island parkland.

It grazes on grasses and low vegetation, moves between upland nesting sites and feeding areas, and often appears in small family groups. It uses volcanic slopes, high grasslands, shrublands, and protected parkland well, which helps explain why the bird feels familiar well beyond protected areas.

In Hawaii, start with Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Haleakala National Park, and Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Scan open grass and lava edges for feeding groups, especially where protected park populations are well established. Cooler morning hours often bring the calmest feeding activity and the best chances to see family groups moving in the open. These kinds of places match the bird's preferred mix of volcanic slopes, high grasslands, shrublands, and protected parkland.

The Hawaiian Goose is currently listed as VU. The nene has rebounded from a severe low point through captive breeding and protection, but introduced predators, road mortality, and habitat pressure still keep it vulnerable.