Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 8, Number 6, 1 June 1991 — ʻAlae ʻula: The bird that brought fire [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

ʻAlae ʻula: The bird that brought fire

The 'alae 'ula or Hawaiian gallinule is a close relative of the eommon moorhen of North America. It is easily identified by its dark plumage with white-streaked flanks and tail, yellow legs and bright red bill and frontal

shield. Usually silent, this bird may sound off a highpitched laugh-like cry, especially when stressed or disturbed. Algae, mollusks, and underwater insects make up the bulk of the Hawaiian gallinule's diet. These birds often utilize wetland taro lo'i for feeding and nesting. Some taro farmers however, look upon the birds as pests because they often uproot newly planted huli (taro cuttings) while foraging for food. Like other native waterbirds including the Hawaiian duck coot, and stilt, the Hawaiian gallinule is in danger of becoming extinct. The loSs of suitable habitat due to the development of wetland areas is the main reason for their decline. Onee eommon on most of the main islands the 'alae 'ula is now found only on O'ahu and Kaua'i. According to Hawaiian lore a Hawaiian gallinule took a stick of fire from the gods and gave it to the Hawaiian people. In the process his bill and forehead was scorched by the flame. The ancestors of this brave bird still bear the mark of the fire and wear it proudly on their heads.

Kafarally Ilawaiian