Hawaiian Goose
NameHawaiian Goose
Common NameHawaiian Goose
Scientific NameBranta sandvicensis
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)110
Length (cm)60
Weight (g)2000
Plumage DetailsThe head and hindneck are black, with buff cheeks and chin. The neck is deeply furrowed with diagonal black and buff stripes. The body plumage is brown with pale feather edgings, creating a barred appearance, while the flight feathers are dark.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a soft, low 'honk' or 'ga-ga-ga' sound, distinct from other goose species.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, mountain, coastal
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Hawaiian Islands, primarily found on Maui, Kauaʻi, and Hawaiʻi (the Big Island).
Identifying FeaturesBlack head and hindneck, Buff cheeks and chin, Deeply furrowed neck with diagonal black and buff stripes, Partially webbed feet (less webbing than other geese), Terrestrial habits
Description
The Hawaiian Goose, or Nēnē, is a medium-sized goose endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. It is primarily terrestrial, adapted to volcanic landscapes, and known for its distinctive black head and neck with buff cheeks and a deeply furrowed, striped neck pattern.
