HONOLULU -- Wednesday is Nene Awareness Day -- proclaimed by Gov. Linda Lingle for the purpose of educating residents and visitors alike about Hawaii's state bird.

Long before any humans inhabited the Hawaiian Islands, nene geese were already established.

Many biologists believe the Hawaiian goose is the most endangered in the world. The birds have done much better in recent years thanks to the efforts of captive breeding programs and landowners willing to provide predator-free habitats.

It is believed about 1,500 nene now roam the islands. There were fewer than 30 birds left in 1947.

One way to help the population grow is to have a greater awareness about nene.

It is a ground-nesting bird so it will not do well where feral dogs, cats and mongoose are.

Biologists said people should not try to feed the geese.

Motorists should always be aware that nene do not differentiate between a grassy field and a dangerous road.

Too often nene are struck by cars driven by people who are not alert.

Students are encouraged to enter the Goose That Laid the Golden Egg Contest picture, logo and essay contest. For more information about the contest you can e-mail nenehawaiigoose@hotmail.com.