Gallinule
This
endangered
endemic bird was once found on most of the main islands,
but now only small populations are found on Kaua`i, O`ahu, and Moloka`i.
Because of habitat destruction, predation, and illegal shootings these
birds are in serious trouble and may soon be lost to us. The `alae `ula
is a sub-species of the common gallinule of North
America and Eurasia.
Because of isolation they have evolved a nonmigratory behavior and have
become distinct enough to be considered as separate. Their habitat includes
freshwater wetlands, reservoirs, irrigation ditches with dense vegetation.
Although they swim well they remain in shallow protected water feeding on
algae and aquatic animals. Their zoo diet consists of diced greens and
fruits, a wet mixture of poultry mash, grain, trout pellets, fruit fly
pupae, and a vitamin-mineral additive.
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