Hakalau Forest NWR was set aside in 1985 to protect and manage endangered forest birds and their rain forest habitat. Located on the windward slope of Mauna Kea, Island of Hawaii, the 32,733-acre refuge supports a diversity of native birds and plants equaled by only one or two other areas in Hawaii. Eight of the 14 native bird species occurring at Hakalau are endangered. Thirteen migratory bird species and 20 introduced species, including eight game birds, as well as the endangered hawaiian hoary bat also frequent the refuge.
The Maulua Tract of Hakalau Forest NWR is open to the public for bird watching, pig hunting, hiking, and photography on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Permission is required prior to entry. Contact the refuge in Hilo for current information on visiting opportunities.
