Return of the Kōlea Provides Migration Lesson for Keiki

The kōlea or Pacific golden-plover (Pluvialis fulva) is a moderately small yellow and buff mottled shorebird (Family: Charadriidae) which winters in the Main Hawaiian Islands and breeds in Siberia and westernmost Alaska. Photo by Alex Wang.

Here in Hawaiʻi, the arrival of fall heralds more than just renewed rainfall. It also marked the return of our annual avian visitors – the kōlea (Pacific golden plovers) throughout our islands. The kōlea (Pacific golden plovers) have appeared and become more plentiful as autumn unfolds across our islands.  

The kōlea is a migratory shorebird that comes to Hawai‘i during the winter months after flying south from Alaska. The kōlea, which are common throughout Hawai‘i, enjoy open grassy areas, so you will find them at parks, schoolyards, and possibly your own lawn. 

We’ll also be watching for other migratory birds such as the rare koloa māpu (northern pintail) that was once abundant at Waiheʻe Coastal Dunes and Wetlands Refuge. The stories of the koloa māpu visiting in the hundreds are a reminder that we do not work alone. The restoration of wetlands and shorelines at our community preserves provides the animals with some respite after their long journey across the Pacific. We are just a portion of their widespread habitat. 

We teach the students who visit our preserves that these migratory animals have many challenges on both sides of the ocean, as well as different scenarios that affect their habitats. They learn that small changes in one area can lead to big results elsewhere.

In the upcoming months, keep an eye out for the kōlea on the grass or the koholā (humpback whale) in the ocean. Itʻs a great time to enjoy the many migratory animals that visit our islands. Following large winter storms is the perfect occasion to see what birds were caught in the wind and have unexpectedly landed on our Hawaiian shores. 

— Denby Freeland, Director of ʻĀina Community Programs