This strong El Nino pattern has sent an unusually large number of tropical storms toward Hawai`i over the last few weeks. While damaging with serious consequences to vulnerable populations, healthy ones have a better chance of surviving shocks (like weather events) to the system. Here a pair Manu-O-Ku with a chick continue on regards of the noise and weather around them.

This species doesn’t build a nest and in heavy wind situations, hatched chicks only have well developed claws to hold onto their branches. Even so, many chicks fall from their trees during strong winds. Here on O`ahu, programs have been set up to monitor nesting trees and help with fallen fledglings.

Through the combine effort of caring individuals and the birds themselves, Manu-O-Ku populations have rebounded. We’re giving this species the best possible chance to literally weather the storm. Here’s hoping we can replicate that with our more fragile taxa.