Ka ʻio nui maka lana au moku.....
The great ʻio with eyes that see everywhere on the land.
In the sky, we notice a distant screeching sound leading us to a tiny circling dot—a bird, likely the ‘io or Hawaiian hawk (Buteo solitarius), the sole hawk species native to Hawaiʻi. In Hawaiian culture, they revere these majestic birds as family protectors known as ʻaumākua.
The endemic ‘io, once potentially distributed throughout the Hawaiian chain, now exclusively inhabits the Island of Hawaiʻi. Although once listed as endangered, its populations are rebounding. Adults, measuring between 15 and 20 inches tall, frequently circle above areas near the summit of Kīlauea and along Mauna Loa Road. Females, larger than males, form lasting bonds. Pairs perform acrobatic mating dances during winter and spring, with females laying eggs between March and July. Fledglings born in summer soar across the caldera floor, searching for food throughout the park high in the sky, covering miles of lands in seconds.
Listen for the ‘io, and you might be fortunate enough to see one. These raptors have a range of 2,375 square miles on Hawai’i Island, which covers over half of the island.
ʻIo (Hawaiian Hawk) Call
The 'io, also known as the Hawaiian Hawk, boasts a piercing and high-pitched call that resonates with its Hawaiian name. Click above to hear its call.
Audio courtesy of David Kuhn
[Sound of a hawk] A high-pitched screech that rises and falls in a distinct pattern. The call is clear and strong, cutting through the air. Occasionally, there's a pause, then another sharp, keening cry as the bird soars through the open sky.
Frequently Asked Questions
ʻIo feed on native insects and birds, as well as non-native insects, birds, and rodents.
‘Io inhabit the Island of Hawai’i, ranging from 1,000 to 8,530 ft. They can be found in lowland non-native forests, urban and agricultural areas, as well as in high native forests.
Major threats to ‘io include habitat loss due to fire and urbanization, and growth of invasive species in the understory which reduces foraging opportunities.
In January 2020, the ‘io was taken off the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife. Listed in 1967, improved monitoring and conservation efforts now show it is no longer considered threatened or endangered.
