SAN DIEGO (June 6, 2023) – Researchers are currently tracking over 40 wild ‘io, also known as Hawaiian hawks, on Hawai‘i Island with lightweight, solar-powered GPS transmitters. This work is part of a collaborative effort to conserve this beloved species and one of its natural prey—the ‘alalā. Researchers with San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and the State of Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources – Division of Forestry and Wildlife are collaborating on this effort as part of a large-scale GPS tracking program to better understand the extent to which ‘io move across the island and how they utilize different habitats. With the new insights that are gathered, scientists will be better equipped to conserve this iconic raptor, and simultaneously glean critical insights to aid in the future reintroduction of the ‘alalā, also called the Hawaiian crow, to their native habitats. The aim is to ensure that both ‘alalā and ‘io can coexist in their native habitats, as they previously did for many years.

Take a closer look at how we're rebuilding sustainable populations of critically endangered wildlife in the Pacific.

While the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is temporarily closed to on-grounds visitors due to COVID-19 restrictions, online guests can now visit the platypuses at the Safari Park’s Walkabout Australia on their smartphone or computer.

The San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park are closed temporarily due to COVID-19 restrictions, but members and guests can rest assured that the much-beloved animals and plants at both parks are being well cared for by teams of dedicated caregivers. 

With the launch of #WereHereTogether, parents, educators and fans from around the world can stay connected to their favorite animals and species through a wealth of free online content, entertainment and educational tools provided by San Diego Zoo Global.