Nene (Hawaiian Goose)

The nene is the only remaining species of Hawaiian goose. Fossil records indicate that four other species of goose once existed on Maui. Two of these extinct species, like the nene, were relatively small and capable of flight. The other two species were larger, heavily constructed and flightless. It is estimated that as many as twelve species of geese once inhabited Hawaii. The nene have adaptations for life in Hawaii such as reduced webbing on their feet to aid in walking over sharp volcanic rock.