At the Hawaii State Department of Health's Kinau Hale, a historic tree that is frequented by Manu-o-Kū (White Terns) and other birds for habitation is in danger of being cut down on Saturday, May 20th, with the justification in order to preserve 10 parking stalls due to asphalt uplifting. This tree has been a home to these beautiful birds and other bird species for years and it would be a tragedy to see it destroyed.

The Manu-o-Kū population is fairly small on Oahu (at present about 2,300 according to Hui Manu-o-Kū) and their population has been steadily increasing from 700 in the early 2000s. They rely on trees like this one for habitation and nesting. Without this tree, their range of habitat will only diminish within urban Honolulu.

Cutting down this tree would not only harm the local Manu-o-Kū population, but also disrupt the ecosystem of the area. Trees provide oxygen, shade, and homes for many animals including insects, birds, and mammals. This is especially important as Honolulu's urban tree canopy continues to shrink and the urban heat island effect is expected to increase (source: Trees for Honolulu's Future), which will impact the adjacent homeless shelter opening in late May 2023.

We urge those responsible for making decisions about this tree's fate to consider the impact it will have on both the environment and our community. We ask that they find an alternative solution that does not involve cutting down this important habitat.

Sources:

• Get to know Manu-o-Kū - Hui Manu-o-Kū
• Trees for Honolulu's Future