Hawai‘i Wildlife Center

I’ve never imagined myself working at the Hawaii Wildlife Center because of my fear of birds or anything that flies.  I was shocked that they hired me in spite of me informing them of my fear.  Over the past 3 years I’ve learned about the different Native Hawaiian Birds, the type of species, their habitat and being able to share that knowledge to people that visited (pre COVID) or called the Center and redirecting the calls for non-native species.  My most memorable experience was when I first picked up 2 birds from cargo to transport back to the center and right before reaching Waikoloa, I really needed to use the bathroom.  I decided to stop by the Queens Market and took both kennels with me to the bathroom because I didn’t want to leave them inside in my car unattended.   What I find most rewarding is when we are able to release the birds after being treated and rehabilitated.  What I really love working here at the Hawaii Wildlife Center is the entire staff, our amazing volunteers, our partners and donors.

I first learned about HWC when my neighborhood visited. I had no idea what to expect and looking back I wonder how could I have spent so much time on the island without knowing about them.  I found passion, commitment, and expertise in their care for our native wildlife combined with a focus on education and community outreach – all values that I share. Since then, becoming a donor, an ambassador, and a board member, I have learned so much from HWC. They increased my understanding of our native birds, the challenges they face and what we can do. HWC has truly enriched my life.

Long before the Hawaii Wildlife Center was a fully functional wildlife rehab facility it was a marvelous VISION.  Linda’s personal commitment to make this project happen was an inspiration to me and to several others who agreed to participate on the HWC Board.  At that time I was the Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge Manager. It was highly stressful knowing that I was responsible for preventing or mitigating the impacts of a major oil spill or outbreak avian disease in this spectacular refuge. I turned to Linda Elliott to help us prepare for this challenge. Since that time she has made several visits to Midway to continue our working relationship.                                                             

In honor of the tenth anniversary of HWC, I want to encourage supporters to set up a MONTHLY donation, even a small one. That’s what I have done for years. I’ve always had an interest in nature and I worked with animals in my career and as a volunteer. Now, as an older person, I make small donations monthly to several organizations. HWC helps to protect native bird and mammal populations from decades of global changes in the climate, and I love being a part of that work by donating. 

Monthly donations, even small ones like mine, give organizations stability and allow them to more easily plan for the future. I learned this as a volunteer in the office of a small non-profit, where I saw the day-to-day struggles to keep it afloat. When I first encountered HWC a dozen years ago I knew this was an important effort I wanted to be a part of. 

Mahalo nui loa to the staff and volunteers of the Hawai’i Wildlife Center!

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.