(HILO) - The DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) has announced the temporary closure of certain areas on Hawaii Island for animal control activities as part of efforts to protect the palila bird's critical habitat. A news release from DLNR stated that the animal control activities, including trapping, ground, and aerial shooting, will target feral goats, feral sheep, mouflon, and mouflon/feral sheep hybrids in specific reserves and game management areas on the island.
The aerial shooting of sheep and goats is a necessary measure to comply with a federal court order aimed at safeguarding the palila bird's habitat, which is unique to Hawaii. The control work is scheduled to take place on May 14-15, 2024, in designated locations that include the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve, Mauna Kea Ice Age Natural Area Reserve, Palila Mitigation Lands, and the Ka‘ohe Game Management Area.
In order to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the animal control activities, public access to the affected areas will be restricted during the operation. Access will only be allowed by permit for animal salvage purposes on May 14 and May 15, 2024. The closure is in accordance with specific regulations to prevent incompatible uses in the forested areas and facilitate the safe execution of the control measures.
Individuals interested in obtaining salvage permits for animal control activities are advised to contact the DOFAW Hilo Office at 808-974-4221. The office will accept calls until 10 a.m. on the day preceding each shoot. Applicants will need to provide detailed information, including the driver, occupants, vehicle make/model, and license plate number. Only one permit per call, per vehicle, for one day will be issued, with the possibility of standby slots for additional days.
The DLNR emphasized the importance of following the guidelines and procedures set forth for the temporary closure and animal control activities. Specific instructions regarding meat salvage and access permits can be obtained by contacting the DOFAW Hilo office.
For further information, individuals can visit the DLNR website or contact the DOFAW Hilo office directly.
The DLNR news release also shared resources, including HD video footage of the Palila bird and hunting information, which can be accessed online.