alAla

Alalā, or the Hawaiian crow (Corvus hawaiiensis), is a large passerine in the crow family that is native to Hawaii. Historically it inhabited native forests on multiple Hawaiian Islands, but its range and numbers declined due to habitat loss, predation by introduced mammals, and disease. The last wild alalā disappeared in 2002, and the species is currently listed by the IUCN as Extinct in the Wild. All remaining individuals exist in captivity or controlled environments as part of a coordinated conservation program.

A long-running captive breeding program has preserved the species, aiming to maintain genetic diversity and prepare for potential reintroduction. Reintroduction trials have been conducted in suitable high-elevation habitats where mosquito-borne diseases are less prevalent, but no self-sustaining wild population has yet been reestablished. Ongoing work focuses on disease risk management, habitat protection and restoration, and the genetic management of the captive population.

Conservation efforts emphasize learning from the alalā’s decline to inform broader native forest restoration and disease mitigation strategies in Hawaii. The alalā also holds cultural significance in Hawaii and is used in education and outreach to raise awareness about native biodiversity and conservation challenges.

As of the latest available information, the species remains extinct in the wild, with captive programs continuing to support research, breeding, and carefully managed reintroduction planning for the future.