Nene Goose Hawaii State Bird | Hawaii T-Shirt | Ocean Life Aloha Tee | Hawaiian Gift

Nene Goose Hawaii State Bird — Hawaiian T-Shirt

From the brink of extinction to the lava slopes of the Big Island — the nēnē is Hawai'i's great conservation comeback story.

The Story Behind Nene Goose Hawaii State Bird

The nēnē (Hawaiian goose) is Hawai'i's official state bird and one of the world's rarest geese. Having evolved from Canada geese that arrived on the islands thousands of years ago, the nēnē adapted to life on rugged lava fields by developing reduced webbing between its toes — perfect for navigating volcanic terrain rather than swimming. By the mid-20th century, hunting and introduced predators had reduced its population to fewer than 30 birds, pushing it to the edge of extinction.

Thanks to intensive conservation efforts, captive breeding programs, and dedicated wildlife managers, the nēnē now numbers in the thousands and can be spotted waddling confidently near Haleakala on Maui and across the lava fields of the Big Island. Its honk — soft and distinctive — is one of the most beloved sounds in all of Hawai'i. This shirt honors the bird that refused to disappear.

Product Details

• Style: Gildan 5000 Adult Heavy Cotton, unisex fit
• Material: 100% preshrunk cotton (heather colors contain polyester)
• Print: Direct-to-garment, color-fast, soft-hand feel
• Fit: Classic unisex — true to size, room to move
• Made on demand: Printed and shipped from a U.S. fulfillment center

Size Guide

Please check the size chart below before ordering — measurements are in inches and centimeters.

Care

Machine wash cold, inside out. Tumble dry low. Do not iron directly on the print. Treat it gently and it will outlast the suntan.

Mahalo

Every order helps keep a small Native Hawaiian-owned business alive in Kailua-Kona. Whether you're bringing home a memory of the islands or wearing your kūpuna's spirit close, mahalo nui loa for your support.