The nene goose (neh-neh), or Hawaiian goose is a species endemic to the Hawaiian islands and is the official state bird. They are closely related to the Canadian goose. It is a medium sized goose, about 16″ tall. They have a soft call unlike other goose species. They spend most of their time on the ground, though they are capable of flight. The adult’s bill, legs, and feet are black. It inhabits shrublands, grasslands, coastal dunes, golf courses, and lava plains. The nene is the world’s rarest goose. They were once common until Capt. James Cook arrived and introduced predators such as mongoose, pigs, and cats. The population was reduced to 30 birds. Thankfully the nene goose breeds well in captivity. Today the population stands at about 2,500. Most, if not all that you will see have their legs banded for identification purposes.