Buteo solitarius

 Our only endemic hawk lives on the island of Hawaii where it is often seen in various types of habitat.  From observation, it appears the `io is an adaptable bird and will nest in the vicinity of human habitation.  There are two color phases -- the dark phase birds are dark gray brown overall, whereas the light phase birds are dark dorsally with a light colored head and under parts which is often streaked with brown.  The color phases are not sex-linked.  Because it is only found on the island of Hawaii it is considered endangered.

 Although the complete biology of this species is not known, the breeding season runs from February through August and possibly September, with pairs having their own schedule that may be dependent on locality.  Nests are constructed of twigs picked up from the ground or broken off from trees.  The nest cup is lined with leafy material.  Eggs are similar in size and shape to a medium chicken egg, light blue in color and either speckled or streaked with brown or reddish brown.  The clutch size is normally one egg, and should the egg be lost within a few days of laying, a second clutch is laid within three weeks.  Pair bonding appears to be permanent, and a pair uses the same nesting site in succeeding years.  A territory or home range may be important only during the breeding season, while during the remainder of the year birds may range over a greater distance returning periodically to their breeding territory.  Nesting may or may not occur every year.  Offspring are dependent on the parents for a long period to include care after fledging.

 The `io is a generalist in feeding since they will eat insects, small animals, birds, and aquatic animals.  Zoo diet is 3 pieces of raw meat daily, and 2 times a week, 3 mice.

 Our `io’s name is Kapono. We believe he was taken from his nest and hand raised, giving him no fear of humans, thereby making him un-releasable.