HAWAIIAN HAWK (lO) Buteo solitarius (Peale) 



Order: FALCONIFORMES Family: ACCIPITRIDAE 



Distinguishing characteristics : A small, soaring type of hawk . Two color phases: 

 dark , very dark above and below; light , upper parts dark, underparts light buff often 

 streaked . 



Present distribution : Confined to Island of Hawaii. Locally common on slopes of Mauna 

 Loa , windward and Kona coasts . 



Former distribution : Same as present. 



Status : In small numbers, although widely distributed on the Island of Hawaii. Much 

 reduced from former numbers and in need of greater protection. 



Estimated numbers : Probably in low hundreds . 



Breeding rate in the wild : Unknown . 



Reasons for decline : Alteration of environment by modern man. Habitat destruction 

 and illegal killing which still persists. 



Protective measures already taken : Protected by State and Federal laws . 



Measures proposed : Preservation of natural environment. Increase law enforcement 

 effort. Initiate ecological and life history research. Surveillance for chemical contami- 

 nation and other such environmental pollution. Publicize critical status and aesthetic 

 and scientific values. Quarantine on all birds, including cage birds, brought into the 

 State, to prevent introduction of disease. Initiate experimental propagation program. 



Number in captivity : One in Honolulu Zoo . 



Breeding potential in captivity : Unknown . 



References : 



Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife, Administrative Reports. 

 Munro, CD. 1960. Birds of Hawaii . 



123 



