Day 4 of Avian August 2025, Birds of Hawaii, hosted by @cookiedoves: ʻAlae keʻokeʻo or Hawaiian coot (Fulica alai)
The Hawaiian coot , is a unique waterbird found only in Hawaii. It looks a lot like its mainland relative, the American coot, but with a larger, bright white forehead shield, hence the name "keʻokeʻo," which means "white" in Hawaiian.
You’ll usually spot them paddling around in freshwater wetlands, or shallow ponds, either solo or in small, noisy groups. Their presence is often used as an indicator of healthy wetlands.
Even though they’re fairly adaptable, their populations are still considered endangered because of habitat loss, predators like mongooses and cats, and competition from invasive plants. *Plant featured is a native Hawaiian grass, Kākonakona (Panicum torridum)
