The ?Ua?u Kani or Wedge-tailed Shearwater is a seabird native to Hawai'i but also present throughout the Pacific. Many who work to protect these gorgeous birds lovingly nickname them Wedgies. Their Hawaiian name, 'Ua'u Kani, means ?calling or moaning petrel" which is very fitting for their strange, nocturnal vocalizations. Like most seabirds, Wedgies breed in colonies, form long-term pair bonds, lay one egg per season, and both parents participate in incubation and feeding their chick.

Wedgies have many threats. Since they nest on the ground, introduced predators like cats, dogs, and mongoose, can eat their eggs and chicks. Humans can step on and destroy their nesting burrows if not careful. Urban lighting and structures also are a huge threat to Wedgies, as lighting can cause them to become disoriented and strike objects like power lines and fences.

Support our work protecting Wedgies by rocking this great shirt! Photo and art by Robby Kohley and Erika Dittmar.