Hawaiian coot (Fulica alai), Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, 2015.

The Hawaiian coot, also called 'alae kea' in Hawaiian, is similar to the American coot (Fulica americana) you are probably familiar with. They are similar in appearance, size and weight as well as both exhibiting a conspicuous white frontal shield. The Hawaiian coot, however, has been listed as federally endangered since 1970. In an effort to preserve this species and its preferred habitat, one of its last remaining nesting areas has been lisetd as a National Natural Landmark: the Makalawena Marsh on the Big Island of Hawai'i.