[4] The refuge was established in 1985 to preserve and enhance seabird nesting colonies after the property was transferred from the United States Coast Guard.

Management efforts are trapping predators, under contract with Wildlife Services; mowing to provide habitat and food sources for nēnē (Branta sandvicensis); and constructing and maintaining fences to keep dogs off the refuge.

Predator control and a fence line around the perimeter of the refuge provide baseline protection to breeding seabirds and nēnē.

[7] Each year, thousands of migratory seabirds use Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge for nesting, foraging, or resting.

This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.