HI SCR117

Urges the Department of Land and Natural Resources to preserve and expand pueo (Hawaiian short-eared owl) habitat areas throughout the State.

Requests the Department conduct an extensive pueo habitat inventory across Hawaii.

Requires the Department to submit a report on the pueo habitat inventory, including any proposed legislation, to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2017 Regular Session convenes.

Acknowledges that pueo were widespread in the nineteenth century but are thought to be declining, particularly on the Ewa plain, with young nestlings vulnerable to feral cats, dogs, rats, and mongoose.

Notes that the species is listed as endangered on Oahu and that habitat protection efforts for game birds can also benefit pueo populations.