Hawaii Tunes in to Birds

On February 17, 2009, 49 states will switch from analog television signals to digital feed, but Hawaii gets the early bird award for switching in mid-January. Many of the state’s analog transmission towers are located on the Haleakala volcano on Maui, the only known nesting site for the endangered ‘ua’u, or Hawaiian petrel. The birds’ nesting season begins in February, and it is believed that the planned demolition of the analog towers could have serious repercussions for the petrel population.

This is a splendid example of bird conservation at work, proving that humans and birds can coexist if we take into account the needs of the species we share spaces with. As for me, I won’t be taking down my television antenna anytime soon – I’ve never used it, but for the birds it’s a favorite perch. My house finches and sparrows may not be endangered, but they’re welcome to enjoy the view.

For more about the Hawaiian petrel, visit Hawai’i Magazine.