HI HCR178

Urges the Department of Land and Natural Resources to preserve pueo (Hawaiian owl, Asio flammeus sandwichensis) habitat areas across the State and conduct an extensive pueo habitat inventory.

Identifies pueo as an endangered species on Oahu and notes dramatic population decline on the Ewa Plain since the late 1800s, attributing decline to lack of established habitat protection plan.

Recognizes pueo's cultural significance in Hawaiian mythology as "bird of wisdom" and ancestral guardian (aumakua), and notes its importance to Hawaiian families and communities.

Describes pueo characteristics including daytime activity, hunting behavior, ground nesting in grassy areas, and vulnerability to predators such as feral cats, dogs, rats, and mongoose.

Directs certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the Governor, Board of Land and Natural Resources, Hawaiian Homes Commission, Office of Hawaiian Affairs, City and County of Honolulu, and Navy Region Hawaii.