Visiting Pueo on the Big Island of Hawaii

Pueo is the local name for the Hawaiian subspecies of Short-eared Owl.  Despite the tropical climate, Hawaii is mostly devoid of raptors due to the extreme isolation of the island chain. Fortunately we were able to find several Pueo on our exploration of the Big Island.  Short-eared Owls likely arrived in Hawaii after the Polynesian people first landed. Short-eared Owls are one of the most widespread birds of any kind, appearing on all continents except Australia and Antarctica. 

The Sacred Owl of Hawaii

The Pueo is considered sacred in traditional Hawaiian culture, and is a magical bird to simply be around.  Many families consider the Pueo to be an aumakua – a guardian spirit. The owls are listed as officially “Endemic” on the subspecies level in the state of Hawaii, and are endangered on the island of Oahu.  

Sunset on the Big Island

The moment where everything aligns perfectly… pure golden Hawaiian sunset light just pouring across the plains. Probably my favorite single frame of 2019. Lizzie was my pilot for this trip – she navigated these country backroads, watching for oncoming cars and getting me into perfect positions while avoiding flushing the owls. An unforgettable night!

Short-eared Owl Resting After a Night’s Hunt

This darker Pueo was sitting quietly in a field, backlit on another amazing Hawaiian morning.

Pueo Habitat Near Mauna Kea

You may be surprised that this landscape is found in Hawaii – acres and acres of rolling pasture along the slopes of the volcano Mauna Kea. This land was probably cleared of trees many, many years ago but the landscape that remains fits the Short-eared Owl perfectly. Pueo are able to hunt along these open fields for prey that includes mammals, birds, and insects.