Presentation at Lyman Museum to offer update on ‘alala reintroduction efforts

Courtesy of SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL An ‘alala released in 2017 to the Pu‘u Maka‘ala Natural Area Reserve.
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Through intensive conservation efforts, ‘alala — the endemic and endangered Hawaiian crow once considered to be extinct in the wild — have been reintroduced into native Hawaiian forests.

These conservation efforts are ongoing and plans are underway for the next reintroduction.

Rachel Kingsley, education and outreach associate for The ‘Alala Project, returns to the Lyman Museum on two occasions this month to provide information about this unique species, an update about the birds that already were reintroduced and plans for future reintroduction initiatives. Kingsley will present “Return to the Wild: Update on the ‘Alala Reintroduction Efforts” from 7-8:30 p.m. Monday, July 27, and again from 3-4:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 28, at the museum in downtown Hilo.

The community is invited to come and learn more about this highly intelligent crow species, integral to native Hawaiian ecosystems and culture.

Admission to these wonderful programs is free to museum members and $3 for nonmembers.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, masks must be worn and physical distancing will be observed. Seating is therefore very limited; those who want to attend must reserve seats in advance by calling the museum at 935-5021 during business hours from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and must check in at the front desk prior to the presentation.

Check-in begins at 6:30 p.m. Monday evening and 2:30 p.m. Tuesday afternoon. First called, first reserved.

On Monday evening only, additional parking is available next door at Hilo Union School via the Kapiolani Street entrance. Park, then walk through the museum’s green gate in the rock wall.