Issue 28: `Io

E wehe i ka umauma i akea.

Open out the chest that it may be spacious.

Be generous and kind to all.

Organism of the Week!  `Io, Buteo Solitarius
This animal is one that is symbolic and significant to many locals.  On th rare occassion I've seen an `io swoop overhead, I've considered it an auspicious sign.  I know it was a creature related to royalty.  However, as to the more traditional information - I can't say much.  I have no research sources that add to that subject, unfortunately, so please add any information you can below! 
The `io is a hawk native to Hawaii.  It successfully nests in higher altitudes, often in ohi`a trees during the months of March to September.  The `io is a solitary creature for the most part, aggressively protecting their eggs during breeding season.  They are predator birds (unsurprisingly) and feed on rats, small birds, bugs and other small prey.  They used to prey on the Hawaiian crow, but that species is extinct in the wild these days.  Male `io are slightly smaller than females, each averaging in weight at about a pound.  From head to tail they are sixteen to

Photographer website

eighteen inches long - so a pretty small bird.  But still striking with its coloration and sharp eyes.  The feathers come in dark or light - the breast/stomach area is where you can see the difference. 


By Sabrina Robello

Sourced: Here and here.










Community Events!
Hawaii Food Drive! - Saturday, (Multiple locations/times)
It's that time again!  Clean out your pantry and donate it to a good cause, find your local food bank/drive here.
Spring Plant Sale - Saturday, 9 am - Lyon Arboretum
All sorts of plants will be sold this weekend - mostly pretty plants, but there will also be a few herbs and veggie plants!  Check it out!