In an unusual twist of civic engagement, Honolulu Zoo has successfully held a virtual election to appoint a new 'mayor' to its ranks, not the human kind, but rather a feathered figure of authority. Winning by a definitive margin, Makamae the pueo, a native Hawaiian short-eared owl, has taken the honorary title, according to Spectrum Local News. Found unfit for release into the wild due to a blind right eye, Makamae came to the zoo from Kauai Humane Society back in 2016 and now happily resides there.
Although pitted against Jaws, a venerable Galapagos tortoise resident since before the zoo's establishment in 1929, the virtual election was far less about political rivalry and more a creative initiative for conservation awareness. As reported by Hawaii News Now, despite his loss, Jaws was graciously named the Director of Habitat Protection and Chief Conservation Officer. Assigned the role, he will also serve as Czar of Birthday Shellebrations, a subcommittee overseeing festivities for the zoo's animal inhabitants, in which not all tortoises known for their slow pace, will now lead and hastily coordinate celebratory events.
The election, broadcasted on Honolulu Zoo's Facebook and Instagram platforms, invited the public to vote with hearts and likes for their favored candidate. Not merely a social media stunt, the competition was an informative campaign to highlight the plight of endangered and threatened species. "I want to congratulate Makamae on his recent win, HOOO I know will do a bang-up job as Honolulu Zoo Mayor," were the words of Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi, as mentioned by Spectrum Local News. He added praise for both animals who campaigned on impactful conservation platforms, including education and climate action initiatives.
In their roles, as signified by the zoo officials, both Makamae and Jaws will contribute to the zoo's conservation and educational causes, in which an owl now bestowed with the symbolic lead will fulfill duties befitting a mayor in the eyes of both Zoo officials and visitors. Mayor Blangiardi also assured readiness to assist in conservation efforts, emphasizing collaborative work, as per Spectrum Local News. Together, owl and tortoise represent a winning team for the zoo's message: Protect and celebrate the extraordinary wildlife that calls Honolulu home.
