 The Nene or Hawaiian Goose (Branta sandwicensis) is the official state bird of Hawaii. This goose has a soft honking call and lives on volcanic slopes of Hawaii. It does not spend much time in water and does not migrate. Only about 800 Nene are left in the wild; they are an endangered species. These geese are attacked by mongooses, dogs, cats, hogs, and people. Anatomy: The Nene has partially webbed feet. It ranges from 21 to 26 inches (53-66 cm) long and weighs 4 to 5 pounds (1.8-2.3 kg). Males and females are similar in plumage, but the male is slightly bigger. Diet: The Nene is an herbivore (plant-eater), eating grass and other low-lying plant material. Eggs and Nests: The Nene's bowl-like nest is a hollow in volcanic rock
that is lined with grass and down. Females lay 5 to 8 eggs in each clutch
(a set of eggs laid at one time). The female incubates the eggs for 30 days,
until the eggs hatch. The male cares for the female during the incubation
period.
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