What’s so special about Ka‘ena Point Natural Area Reserve?
Ka‘ena Point is an excellent example of the type of environment that can be found in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. The difference is that anyone on O‘ahu can get to Ka‘ena Point to see one of the largest seabird colonies in the main Hawaiian Islands and also a variety of rare and endangered plants and animals. There are also cultural sites including the Leina a ka ‘Uhane, a spirit leap important to Hawaiian culture. Q: What’s the problem at Ka’ena Point Natural Area Reserve? A: The special resources at Ka‘ena are under threat. Animals like dogs, cats, and mongooses have killed ground-nesting seabirds like the ua‘u kani (Wedge-tailed Shearwater) and mōlī (Laysan Albatross), especially the young before they can fly. Rats eat seabird eggs and chicks and even attack adult birds. Rats and mice also eat native plants and seeds. Despite intensive efforts to control these predators, they still pose a major threat to the survival of native species. Q: Why are dogs not allowed? A: It’s unde
