Name: Nene

Scientific name: Branta Sandvicensis

Description: The Nene looks much like a Canada Goose, in fact it is sometimes called the Hawaii goose because of it's resemblance to the Canada Goose. Its face head and the top of its neck are black. The Nene appears to have white and black stripes on the side of its head. This is because it has white feathers with black skin showing through. The Nene has buff colored cheeks, and only partially webbed feet.

Length: 21"-26"

Where it Lives: The Nene lives on the slopes of Hawaii, which have little vegetation and are very rocky. Captive Nenes can be found at the Honolulu Zoo.

Reproduction: The mating season is from November to March. The Nene will build a round bowl-like nest and line it with soft feathers. The nest is usually in a well-concealed area. 2-5 eggs can be laid in one nest.

What it Eats: The Nene eats green plants, native berries, and introduced plants which often grow in grasslands and slopes.

Why it is Endangered: Nenes are threatened by non-native animals like mongooses, feral dogs, and cats. Other threats are lack of food and their habitat is being destroyed.