The Kīlauea Overlook parking lot, including its surrounding areas and pit toilet, is now temporarily closed to safeguard a nesting nēnē family, the Hawaiian geese, with two goslings. The National Park Service has taken this immediate action to prevent potential vehicle strikes and minimize disruptions to the birds.
The nēnē is the world’s rarest goose and the official bird of the state of Hawaii. The closure of the Kīlauea Overlook parking lot aims to provide a secure environment for the nesting family, ensuring the survival and growth of the goslings.
The National Park Service has not announced a reopening date yet. Visitors are advised to respect the closure for the safety and protection of the nēnē family. Further updates will be provided on the National Park Service’s official website.