Monday, February 19, 2007
Kilauea Lighthouse
We went to the Kilauea Lighthouse today. The view from the lighthouse is outstanding. It was a cool place to visit but there wasn't much to do. Aiden got to run around a bit and chased the Nene birds (goose really).
The Nene, or Hawaiian Goose, is the state bird of Hawaii. The Nene is actually a relative of the larger Canadian goose, but has evolved very differently in Hawaii. It was originally endemic to Kauai, but had already gone extinct on this island by the time Captain Cook arrived. Fossil records show that previously there had been a large population of Nene in the lowlands of Kauai. The Nene survived on the Big Island and Maui, but came dangerously close to extinction after overhunting and the introduction of alien predators. A breeding program was begun in the 50’s, and the Nene was re-introduced to Kauai. The bird is still an endangered species, but has made a good recovery here.
Looking down from the yard in front of the light house - this is the view. Doesn't look like an area I'd like to surf or swim in.
My free spirited boy enjoying himself thorougly at the lighthouse. Kauai is beautiful and a lot of fun but I think this boy could enjoy himself in convience store parking lot. He just knows how to have fun.
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