Recovery and release; Lyman Museum to host discussion about Hawaii’s endemic crow — the ‘alala

Hawaii’s endemic crow, the ‘alala, once made its home across the length and breadth of Hawaii Island, but today — owing to a variety of threats in the wild — these birds exist only in captivity.

Successful breeding and conservation efforts, however, helped rescue this native Hawaiian species from the brink of extinction. This fall, ‘alala will be restored to their natural habitat and these very intelligent birds will take their place once again among the fauna of Hawaiian forests.

From 7-8:30 p.m. Monday (May 23) at the Lyman Museum, Lea Ka‘aha‘aina with the state Department of Land and Natural Resources’ The ‘Alala Project will present “‘Alala: Restoring Hawaii’s Native Crow to the Wild,” relating to the amazing account of the ‘alala’s recovery and plans for its upcoming release.

Admission to the program costs $3 for the general public and is free for museum members. Space is limited and on a first come, first served basis.

The nationally accredited and Smithsonian-affiliated Lyman Museum showcases the natural and cultural history of Hawaii. The museum is located in historic Downtown Hilo at 276 Haili St., and is open 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

For more information, call 935-5021 or visit www.lymanmuseum.org.