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Posted: Monday, June 25th, 2012 8:07 AM HST

Nene Killed in Volcanoes National Park

By Ken Hupp - 67AM KPUA News

Officials at Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park are urging motorists to slow down and watch out for the endangered nene goose while driving on park roadways. The appeal follows last week’s death of a female nene, who was struck by a vehicle on Chain of Craters Road near Pauahi Crater. The female, known as Green DU, was a consistent breeder, and successfully raised 24 goslings. She was hatched in captivity at the park in December 1991 and released in March of 1992. Scientists say Nene are quite active during the late evening and early morning hours. Nene crossing signs are posted along park roadsides in places they frequent most. But their grayish coloring makes them difficult to see during those hours. Park officials are also asking visitors not to feed the geese because birds seeking handouts can fall prey to oncoming vehicles. The Nene is Hawai`i’s state bird, with an estimated population of 2,000, including some 200, who live within the park.