The San Diego Zoo's Keauhou Bird Conservation Center continues its work on the Big Island as Kilauea volcano sends out lava and toxic gas.

The center breeds and raises six species of some of Hawai'i's most endangered birds, including the critically endangered alala and palila.

Alan Lieberman is conservation program manager for the Hawaii Endangered Bird Conservation Program.

He says the center's 11-member staff continues its work while making preparations should the volcanic activity become an imminent threat.

Since the birds could develop serious medical problems should they be moved, Lieberman says they will continue to be cared for at the center as long as possible.