Meet Maka‘io, Ambassador Hawk in Training
This ‘Io (Hawaiian Hawk) was rescued in Kona in late September 2019 with a torn pupil and a wing injury. Even though were able to get him flying again and back in good body condition, the impairment from his eye injury ultimately affected his ability to hunt on his own and he was determined to be an unreleaseable bird. His behavior while in care made him a good candidate to become an education bird so we made the decision to transition him to a permanent resident instead of having to put him down.
Kumu Keala Ching visited HWC to meet this bird, and after experiencing the ‘Io’s personality and hearing his story, gave him the name Maka‘io.
More Information about our Ambassador Hawk Program
The goal of our Ambassador Hawk Program is to provide a good quality of life for Maka‘io, including a varied diet, regular health checks and enrichment. Maka‘io will help connect the community to native species and help foster curiosity and learning of native species biology, conservation, and culture.
Maka‘io will be trained to be comfortable around people during educational talks, but the public is not allowed to pet him or encroach on his personal space. When not on the glove he is able to fly and perch freely in his aviary and do as he pleases. We appreciate the service he is providing and want to create the best life for him, and do so in a culturally pono way.
Maka‘io is a permanent resident of HWC and is included in educational programs with the authorization of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Permit Number: MBPER0039501) and the Hawai‘i DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife.
Every time I see the work done by the HWC or visit the HWC, I leave with a deep sense of hope for our Keiki’s future. Being able to spend time with the resident education ‘Io, Maka‘io remains a favorite moment. We were able to invite Kumu Keala Ching to the center to meet Maka‘io where Kumu was able to be with the ‘Io, speak with the ‘Io through oli, and even get up close and personal with the falconry glove on. After spending time with Maka‘io, Kumu blessed the ‘Io with his name, Maka‘io, and shared Kumu’s mana’o with us about native birds; environmental stewardship, kinship, and reciprocity; and the importance of education. It was such an honor to learn from Kumu and Maka‘io, and I am happy to help shepherd the HWC efforts to connect with the wider community.
