Globally distributed species with high potential for mobility are excellent model systems in which to examine predictions of conservation genetics, but in many cases these species have been intentionally spread by humans over the last few centuries and are nonnative throughout much of their current range, confounding natural gene flow patterns. In the case of the Short-eared Owl, both continental and island populations occur globally, but no study to date has examined gene flow and population structure. Classification of the Pueo (Hawaiian Short-eared Owl, Asio flammeus sandwichensis) as a distinct subspecies of the Short-eared owl (SEOW) is based entirely on morphological differences; no genetic studies have been done to distinguish Pueo from putative mainland relatives. Pueo are smaller in size with darker and richer plumage than the nominate subspecies (Asio flammeus flammeus) found in North America, Europe, North Africa and northern Asia. Genetic analysis that supports the morphological evidence and the Pueo’s taxonomic classification as a separate subspecies could pave the way for more funding aimed at studying and conserving this potentially unique lineage, and is a critical component to considering listing status under the Endangered Species Act. To address these needs, we are utilizing high throughput sequencing to evaluate the genetic diversity of the Pueo on each of the main Hawaiian Islands, as well as estimating gene flow and population density relative to island size. We currently are processing 111 samples collected throughout the Hawaiian island chain, and are looking to expand collaborative relationships globally for phylogenetic comparisons. Results of this study will elucidate whether the Pueo is most appropriately designated as a subspecies or a species, relative to the global population of SEOWs, and will establish a phylogenetic foundation for further studies of this globally distributed species.

Molly Hagemann is a graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in the Natural Resources & Environmental Management department at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. She is focused on studying the population genetics of the Pueo (Hawaiian Short-eared owl, Asio flammeus sandwichensis), but is also interested in the genetic structure of Short-eared owls at a global scale. Molly grew up in Texas and received her undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Texas at Austin. In 2010, she moved to Hawaiʻi and began working at the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, where she still serves as the manager of the Vertebrate Zoology collections.