Conservationists say five Hawaiian crows have been released on Maui for the first time as part of an ongoing effort to return the species to its home

Five ‘alalā, also known as Hawaiian crows, have been released into the forests of Maui for the first time. The release of the ‘alalā on Maui marks a key milestone in the ongoing conservation effort to restore this intelligent and charismatic species to its natural forest habitat.

When the aviary door swung open, offering the five young birds their first taste of freedom, they took note but stayed put at first, watchful. The glossy black birds are among only about 110 ʻalalā, or Hawaiian crows,