The ‘alae‘ula is an endemic subspecies of the common moorhen.  Here in Waimea Valley, approximately ten ‘alae‘ula, can be found on any given day.  Waimea Valley staff have been given the responsibility and privilege to help maintain and enhance the ‘alae‘ula habitat.  These endangered water birds only exist on O‘ahu and Kaua‘i.  Although an accurate count is difficult with such secretive birds, it is estimated that their numbers are only in the hundreds.

Waimea Valley is an amazing place to actually get to see these birds forage for food and interact with each other in a natural setting.  Our conservation efforts range from habitat maintenance to monitoring chicks and controlling the predators that exist in the area.  These efforts could not be accomplished without our dedicated group of volunteers.