NENE

Who is that bird
out walking loose?
It's a nene, nene,
the Hawaiian goose.

Nests on the ground,
not in a tree.
Once on all islands,
now only three.

Beading brown eyes,
black face and crown
I hope you will
stick around.

  The Nene is the state bird for Hawaii.  It is one of the most endangered water fowl in the world.  Once they were really abundant on the Hawaiian Islands, but now they are only on Hawaii, Maui and Kauai. Cats, dogs, rats, and introduced mongoose have destroyed the population.  Many of the birds have been hit by cars and the loss of their habitat has caused their numbers to decrease.  Each hen usually lays three eggs a season.  The Nene feeds on leaves, seeds, berries, and the flowers of grasses, herbs and shrubs.  You can find out more about the Nene here and here.  What is the state bird for your state?  Can you try writing a poem about your state bird?  This might be a great opportunity to try writing an acrostic poem.  Have fun learning about your state bird.

A smile is a light on your face.  Shine on!