At Save Our Shearwaters, we are committed to preserving Hawai’i's unique ecosystem and protecting its native species. As part of our dedication to conservation, we do not admit injurious species for rehabilitation. Additionally, as we are a state and federal permitted wildlife rehabilitation facility, our permits specify that we cannot release any species listed by the State of Hawai’i as injurious wildlife (Hawaii Administrative Rules CH13-124). We must adhere to these requirements, or we risk getting our permit revoked and being unable to provide care for native species. We do offer free humane euthanasia to non-native wild birds, as we don’t want any animal suffering, no matter what the species is. While facilitating the passing of any animal is difficult for our team, we are committed to providing this service to minimize the suffering of these animals. Please call ahead prior for these cases. We appreciate your understanding and support in our mission to protect and preserve Hawaii's environment.

Due to their complicated legal status, Barn Owls and Cattle Egrets are currently being directed to the Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW). Barn Owls and Cattle Egrets are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) but are also considered injurious in the state of Hawai’i. This makes it illegal for the public to possess, care for, euthanize, or release these birds back into the wild without a permit. Any other species listed under the MBTA AND considered injurious in Hawai’i falls under this complex legal status. SOS can provide humane euthanasia for these species if DOFAW is unavailable to assist.

Why are non-native species bad for Hawai’i’s ecosystem?

Non-native species have profound effects on native species and ecosystems, often posing significant threats to their survival. These species, which typically do not have natural predators or competitors in their new environment, can outcompete native species for resources such as food, water, and shelter. They often exhibit rapid population growth and aggressive behaviors, leading to the displacement or even extinction of native species. Species listed as injurious species can also disrupt ecological relationships by preying upon or parasitizing native species, disrupting natural food chains and ecological processes.

List of Injurious Avian Species in Hawai’i

• Cattle egret

• Warblers (All species in the family CETTIIDAE and associated allies)

• Doves and pigeons (All species in the family COLUMBIDAE. Except the domesticated races of pigeons listed in HAR section 4-71-2, Columba domestica and Columba livia)

• Mannikin or Munia, Black-headed Chestnut Mannikin (Lonchura malacca)

• Old World Flycatchers (All species in the family MUSCICAPIDAE)

• Sparrow, Java; Java Rice Finch (Padda oryzivora)

• Parrots (All species in the family PSITTACIDAE )

• Bulbuls (All species in the family PYCNONOTIDAE)

• Starlings, Mynas (All species in the family STURNIDAE)

• ·Old World Babblers (All species in the family TIMALIIDAE)

• Barn Owl (Tyto alba)

• White eyes (All species in the family ZOSTEROPIDAE)