Let's be honest — a black crow is not a typical mascot for a tropical paradise. But the native 'alalā, or Hawaiian crow, is deeply intertwined with the ecosystem of Hawai'i.

Let's be honest — a black crow is not a typical mascot for a tropical paradise. But the native 'alalā, or Hawaiian crow, is deeply intertwined with the ecosystem of Hawai'i.

Special thanks to Macaulay Library at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology for today's field recordings. Since they often roost on cliffs and forage close to shore, Noio, or Hawaiian black noddies, are one of the most commonly seen seabirds in Hawai'i. But birdwatching for Noio isn't just a pleasant afternoon activity — it can also provide critical information about the landscape.

Special thanks to Macaulay Library at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology for today's field recordings.

Special thanks to the Macaulay Library at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology for today's bird song. Kōlea, or Pacific golden-plovers, are considered indigenous and spend their winters in the main Hawaiian islands (as well as other tropical and coastal areas). By the end of April, most Kōlea migrate up to Alaska to feast on abundant food resources and to breed.

Special thanks to the Macaulay Library at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology for today's bird song.

The 'akeke'e is a critically endangered native bird that is endemic to Kaua'i. Like many other honeycreepers, they can only be found in high elevation forests, where cool temperatures ward off mosquito populations.

The 'akeke'e is a critically endangered native bird that is endemic to Kaua'i. Like many other honeycreepers, they can only be found in high elevation forests, where cool temperatures ward off mosquito populations.

The State Department of Agriculture introduced Cattle egrets to Hawai'i in 1959 in order to control fly populations that were harassing cattle herds. But like the non-native Barn owl, the Cattle egret's introduction has had some unintended consequences for native bird species. Special thanks to the Macaulay Library at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology for use of their field recordings in today's Manu Minute.

Special thanks to the Macaulay Library at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology for use of their field recordings in today's Manu Minute.