MĀNĀ, KAUAʻI — Conservation researchers are urging motorists traveling through West Kauaʻi’s Mānā Plains to exercise caution after reporting 20 nēnē deaths along a stretch of highway since late August.
Archipelago Research and Conservation (ARC), a Kauaʻi-based conservation organization, recently shared on social media that nēnē have returned to the area for breeding season, bringing renewed concerns about vehicle collisions along Kaumualiʻi Highway.
According to ARC, one of the latest casualties was discovered Nov. 5. Identification bands indicated the bird was more than 10 years old, making it one of the oldest known individuals in the area.
The deaths come as ARC continues its Mānā Plains Nēnē Project, launched in October 2025 to investigate and reduce wildlife fatalities along approximately five miles of Kaumualiʻi Highway near the Kawaiʻele Waterbird Sanctuary.
The project involves studying nēnē movements, documenting road fatalities and working with state agencies and local stakeholders to identify possible solutions.
Nēnē, Hawaiʻi’s official state bird, are protected under both federal and state law. Although conservation efforts have helped the species recover from near extinction, vehicle collisions remain a significant threat.
Motorists traveling through Mānā Plains are encouraged to slow down, remain alert for birds near or crossing the roadway, and exercise particular caution during breeding season.
Residents who encounter an injured or dead nēnē can report the sighting to the state Division of Forestry and Wildlife at 808-634-0963.
Westside Ledger has reached out to Archipelago Research and Conservation for additional information about the recent fatalities and ongoing efforts to protect West Kauaʻi’s native wildlife.
Westside Ledger will continue following developments and provide updates as additional information becomes available from official sources.