Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary |
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IUCN Category V (Protected Landscape/Seascape)
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Air view of Kanaha Pond
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 Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary
Location in Hawaii
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| Location | Maui, Hawaiʻi |
| Area | 143 acres (58 ha) |
| Established | 1951 |
| Designated: | June 1971 |
Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary is a special wetland on the island of Maui in Hawaii. It covers about 143 acres (58 hectares). This amazing place is a safe home for many birds, especially two types of Hawaiian birds that are very rare. It helps protect these unique birds and their natural habitat.
Contents
Welcome to Kanaha Pond Sanctuary
Kanaha Pond is a type of habitat called a wetland. Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil, or is present near the surface, for all or parts of the year. They can be marshes, swamps, or ponds like Kanaha. These areas are super important because they provide food, water, and shelter for many different animals, especially birds.
What Makes Kanaha Pond Special?
Kanaha Pond is known for being a critical spot for birds. It's a place where many birds come to rest, feed, and raise their young. The pond's shallow waters and muddy areas are perfect for wading birds to find food. The plants around the pond also offer good hiding spots and nesting places.
Meet the Rare Hawaiian Birds
Two very special and endangered Hawaiian bird species call Kanaha Pond home. These birds are found only in Hawaii and need protection to survive.
The Hawaiian Coot
The Hawaiian coot is known as ʻalae or ʻalae keʻokeʻo in Hawaiian. Its scientific name is Fulica alai. This bird looks a bit like a duck but is actually part of the rail family. It has a black body and a bright white shield on its forehead. Hawaiian coots spend most of their time swimming in the pond, diving for plants and insects to eat.
The Hawaiian Stilt
The Hawaiian stilt is called aeʻo in Hawaiian. Its scientific name is Himantopus mexicanus knudseni. This bird is easy to spot with its very long, thin pink legs and a long, slender beak. Its body is black and white. Hawaiian stilts use their long legs to wade in shallow water, looking for small fish, insects, and crabs. They are graceful birds that are fun to watch.
A Protected Home for Wildlife
Because Kanaha Pond is so important for these rare birds, it has been given special protection. In 1951, it was officially named a state sanctuary. This means the area is managed by the state to protect its wildlife and natural features. Later, in 1971, it received an even higher honor: it was designated a National Natural Landmark. This title is given to places that have outstanding natural features and are important for the country's natural heritage.
Other Feathered Visitors
Besides the Hawaiian coot and stilt, many other birds visit Kanaha Pond. Some birds travel long distances and stop here to rest and refuel. These "vagrant" birds are visitors who are usually found in other places but sometimes show up at the pond. For example, birds like the Gray-tailed Tattler and Belted Kingfisher have been seen here. Kanaha Pond even had Hawaii's first recorded sighting of a Black-tailed Godwit! This shows how important the pond is for many different bird species.
Gallery
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Portulaca molokiniensis growing at Kanaha Pond
