The Hawaiian Goose: A Rare Bird That Traded Its Webbed Feet for Lava

Nature · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: The Nene is a goose that defies expectations. It prefers land over water, thrives on volcanic rock, and nearly vanished from the planet entirely. Once reduced to a mere 30 individuals, this resilient bird has made a remarkable comeback, proving that even the rarest species can find a path forward.

The Nene, or Hawaiian Goose, is a master of adaptation. Unlike most waterfowl, it has evolved to live on land, requiring neither freshwater nor saltwater habitats to survive. Its feet reflect this terrestrial shift; the webbing between its toes has receded, an evolutionary adjustment that helps the bird navigate the rugged, cooled lava plains of its native islands. These geese are often found in dramatic volcanic settings, such as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Haleakala National Park, though they are also surprisingly comfortable in human-altered landscapes like golf courses and residential areas.

The species' history is a harrowing tale of near-extinction. By the 1950s, the population had plummeted to just 30 birds due to hunting and the introduction of non-native predators. A massive, multi-decade reintroduction program—which included successful captive breeding efforts in England—helped pull the Nene back from the brink. Today, the population has grown to several thousand individuals, though the species remains one of the rarest geese in the world. Its recovery is a testament to the power of targeted conservation, yet experts remain concerned about the genetic implications of such a small starting population.

Beyond its survival story, the Nene is biologically fascinating. It holds the record for the longest incubation period of any goose, a trait linked to the production of large, heavy eggs—a common characteristic among birds endemic to remote islands. While they are capable of flight, they are primarily ground-dwellers. Their name, Nene, is derived from their soft call, and they have been the official state bird of Hawaii since 1957. Despite their rarity, they are often remarkably tame, offering a unique window into the natural history of the Hawaiian archipelago.

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