HILO, Hawaii (KHON2) -- State officials are investigating a hit-and-run incident that killed a threatened species on the Big Island.
The DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife reported a male nene banded as "595" was killed while attempting to cross the road in Liliuokalani Park and Gardens off Banyan Drive on Thursday.
A staff member responded and picked up the bird. The nene will be tested for toxoplasmosis.
Officials said the incident was a very traumatic experience for the bird's mate and chicks.
One of the chicks, who was born this season, died of suspected toxoplasmosis. The other, nicknamed Onion and banded "NYN," was abducted and later returned before being released into a bird sanctuary.
“Nene’s normally have mate fidelity and will breed for life with their partners. In this case, NTC had one offspring bird-napped, one apparently felled by a disease spread by feral cats and at least one partner killed,” explained Raymond McGuire, DOFAW wildlife biologist.
It is not uncommon for nene to cross the roads in the park. Officials said they travel to different cat-feeding locations put out by people.
DOCARE officers are aware of the feedings and are patrolling the parks in search of those who are putting food out. Anyone who is caught can be cited and may face criminal prosecution.
Anyone who may have seen the vehicle in the park is urged to report it. The person involved is also highly encouraged to step forward.
Information can be reported to DOCARE at (808) 643-DLNR, DOCARE Hilo Branch Office at (808) 933-34-60 or through the DLNRTip app.