Koloa Maoli or Hawaiian Duck (Anas wyvilliana)
The endangered Koloa Maoli is one of three native Hawaiian waterfowl species. The Koloa Maoli depends on wetlands in both low and high elevations for its survival, and is rarely seen in brackish or saline wetland areas. The wetlands provide safety from predators, as well as access to food sources such as algae, submerged plants or grasses and other vegetation. Koloa Maoli nests are also found along the edges of wetland areas or in upland areas. In addition to the threat of habitat loss, predation, and overhunting, the Koloa Maoli also faces the threat of cross-breeding, also referred to as hybridization, primarily with the feral domestic mallard.
Learn More
- Department of Land and Natural Resources: A Teacher’s Guide to Hawaiian Birds (PDF)
- Department of Land and Natural Resources: Water Birds – Koala Maoli or Hawaiian Duck (PDF)
- Department of Land and Natural Resources: USGS – Hawaiian Duck’s Future Threatened by Feral Mallards (PDF)
- Department of Land and Natural Resources: Wildlife Programs – About Koloa Maoli
- Honolulu Zoo Society: About the Koloa Maoli
- Pacific Rim Conservation: Hawaiian Bird Conservation Action Plan for Koloa Maoli (PDF)
