HILO, Hawaii — Thanks to the collaboration between Hawaii County’s Department of Parks and Recreation and support of Friends of the Panaewa Zoo, the pueo exhibit at Panaewa Zoo has been newly renovated in time to welcome a new resident on Sunday. Pueo is the Hawaiian short-eared owl.

The extensive renovation involved replacing aged wooden components, installing new aviary mesh material, applying new paint, and the introduction of native plants both within and surrounding the enclosure.

"We are committed to improving our zoo because it serves as a special place for our kids and families to explore and learn about wildlife,” said Mayor Mitch Roth in a news release. “Our administration is dedicated to creating a better future for the keiki of Hawaii Island, and having safe and educational spaces is essential for this mission. We’re excited for our residents to check out the newly renovated pueo exhibit and meet our new pueo friend.”

Recently rescued under unfortunate circumstances, a pueo named Lilinoe by zoo staff will debut in the new habitat. Because of the severity of her condition, Lilinoe could not be returned to the wild, so the State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources has entrusted Panaewa Zoo with her care.

“She’s a gorgeous bird, and we are very excited to introduce her into this stunning new habitat!” said Panaewa Zoo Administrator Mindy Runnells. “The zoo staff has done an incredible job with the renovation and the habitat is simply beautiful.”

The 12-acre Panaewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens is home to nearly 300 individual animals representing a diverse array of over 80 species. They include birds, small primates, tigers, an alligator, and numerous small reptiles and amphibians.

The botanical gardens feature a collection of hundreds of plants and trees, over 1,000 orchids and more than 100 species of palms.

Sarah Yamanaka covers events, environmental and community news for Spectrum News Hawaii. She can be reached at sarah.yamanaka@charter.com.