 |
Photo by Forest & Kim Starr |
Photo by Forest & Kim Starr |
|
Photo by Forest & Kim Starr |
Photo by Forest & Kim Starr |
Kealia Pond is the largest natural pond in Hawai'i and is a year round home to many rare and endangered waterfowl such as the Hawaiian stilt, ae'o, and the Hawaiian coot, 'alae ke 'oke'o. During winter months, the pond swells, collecting runoff during large storms. It is at this time when many migratory birds find refuge at the pond, including the Pacific golden plover or kolea. It is also a nesting site for endangered hawksbill turtles or honu 'ea who lay their eggs in nests just above the high tide line. Volunteer opportunities include weed pulling, planting native plants, helping in the nursery, assisting with bird recovery after catastrophes such as oil spills or disease outbreaks, assisting in research on aquatic pond life, and helping with the turtle beach patrol. For more information call (808)875-1582 or visit http://pacificislands.fws.gov/wnwr/mkealianwr.html.