According to the NPS website, the nene is extremely endangered. By the mid-1940's, there were less than 50 birds left on the islands. In the 70's, Volcanoes National Park began a captive breeding and reintroduction program.

I captured these shots of the endangered Nene at Volcanoes National Park on Hilo Island, Hawaii.



Although the Nene is a strong and frequent flyer, its short wings, long legs and reduced webbing between its toes indicate that it often walks and seldom swims. These birds are wild, but were out for a stroll along the Crater Rim Road.

Cool, Jim!!!! Did you take any other photos of the National Park?

James

James:

Actually, I didn't really take a lot of pictures in Volcanoes NP. While we were there this time (Oct 2011) access to much of the park was limited by seismic activity. Besides that, for some unknown reason not only did I not feel inclined to take a lot of pictures anywhere on this trip, but I did not find Volcanoes particularly photogenic.

Here are a few I did take:



Here's a view looking down into one of the many volcanic craters. I would not be able to spell it even if I could remember how to pronounce the name.



Some hardy souls actually hiked down into the caldera and walked across. We did not have the time or energy to make the trek.



Interesting patterns in the lava flow.