Menunkatuck Audubon Society: Hawaiian Forest Birds Threats & Solutions

The unique and iconic forest birds of Hawaii are facing an immediate extinction crisis. Found nowhere else on Earth, at least 12 species are threatened with imminent extinction in the next few years from habitat loss, invasive species, climate change and disease, such as avian malaria spread by mosquitoes.

Hawaiian forest birds are an integral ecological and cultural component of the Hawaiian Islands. These birds reflect the health of forests and represent cultural connections between the Native Hawaiian Community and the islands. The loss of these species compromises the integrity of unique ecosystems as well as the natural and cultural heritage of Hawaii.

Join us when we welcome Jackie Guadioso for a program about the what is being done to preserve these special forest birds.

Jackie has 19 years of experience in avian field work and conservation, of which 16 years of this experience is with native Hawaiian forest birds. She holds a M.S. degree in Conservation Biology and Environmental Sciences from the University of Hawai’i at Hilo.

Her past research and experience spans the topics of native Hawaiian forest bird conservation including ecology and morphology, endangered bird propagation, avian reintroductions and translocations, avian point-count surveys, and introduced avian disease and ectoparasites. Most recently in Hawaii, she was the project coordinator for the reintroduction of the Hawaiian Crow or ‘Alalā on Hawaii Island.

Since relocating back home to Connecticut, Jackie is now the Outdoor Adventure Coordinator for the City of New Haven Parks Department where she is leading a team in providing access and opportunities for the local community to enjoy outdoor activities and environmental education within the parks. She enjoys spending time with her 10-year-old daughter, Kāhea, traveling, surfing and camping

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