The name “Aeʻo” refers to two very different things: an endangered Hawaiian stilt, and a luxury condo building in Honolulu.
So, what’s the deal with both of these “Aeʻo”s?
This article will give you a quick overview of both: the Aeʻo bird, its conservation status, and the Aeʻo building, including its location, amenities, and why it’s such a hot property.
The Aeʻo: Hawaii’s Endangered Stilt
The Aeʻo (Himantopus mexicanus knudseni) is a waterbird that’s native to Hawaii and considered distinct from its North American relative. Sadly, the Aeʻo is both federally and state-listed as an endangered species.
That said, NatureServe, an organization that assesses the conservation status of plants and animals, gives the Ae’o a Heritage Rank of G5, which means “secure.”
Habitat and distribution
You can find Aeʻo on all the Main Hawaiian Islands except Kaho’olawe. They like to live in wetlands, reservoirs, ponds, and aquaculture areas, and they prefer to look for food in shallow water that’s less than 9 1/2 inches deep.
Some of their key habitats are on protected lands, such as Kahuku Point on the James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge and the coastal wetlands of Kanahā and Keālia on Maui.
Threats and conservation efforts
The Ae’o’s biggest threats include habitat loss, invasive plants, avian diseases, climate change, and predators like dogs, rats, feral cats, mongoose, cattle egrets, barn owls, and bullfrogs.
To help the Ae’o rebound, conservation groups conduct waterbird surveys twice a year and work on habitat restoration plans. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service also published a recovery plan for Hawaiian waterbirds in 2011.
Ae’o: A Modern Residence in Honolulu
Located at 1001 Queen St in Honolulu’s Maunalani Heights neighborhood, Ae’o is a modern residential tower that offers a blend of urban living and island charm.
Location and Accessibility
Ae’o scores big when it comes to walkability and access to public transportation. With a Walk Score of 95, you can easily run errands, grab a bite to eat, or explore the neighborhood on foot. The Transit Score of 75 means getting around Honolulu without a car is a breeze.
Building Amenities and Features
The building itself boasts a range of amenities designed to enhance residents’ lifestyles. Families will appreciate the proximity to quality schools like Waialae Elementary – Public Charter School, Kalani High School, and Anuenue School.
Neighborhood Highlights
Maunalani Heights provides a vibrant urban environment with a mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. To get a feel for the area, check out an interactive map of the neighborhood to discover all it has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the ʻaeʻo endangered?
Yes, the Hawaiian Stilt, or ʻaeʻo, is an endangered species. Its population has faced significant declines due to habitat loss, introduced predators, and other environmental pressures. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect and recover this unique bird.
What does ʻaeʻo mean in Hawaiian?
The word ʻaeʻo in Hawaiian refers specifically to the Hawaiian Stilt (Himantopus mexicanus knudseni), a native waterbird found only in the Hawaiian Islands. The name is thought to be onomatopoeic, mimicking the bird’s call, although the exact origin isn’t definitively known.
What is the full form of AEO?
The acronym AEO can have multiple meanings depending on the context. Without context, it’s hard to know which one is being referred to. Here are a few possibilities:
- Authorized Economic Operator: This relates to customs and international trade.
- Adult Education Opportunity: Referring to educational programs for adults.
- Agricultural Education Organization: This relates to agricultural programs and education.
In Conclusion
From an endangered Hawaiian stilt to a luxury condominium in Honolulu, “Aeʻo” represents two very different aspects of life in Hawaii.
One is a critically endangered native bird whose future depends on preserving its wetland habitat and mitigating the threats to its survival. The other is a modern residential building that offers a luxurious living experience in the heart of the city.