Kauai Amakihi

The Kauaʻi ʻamakihi, with its scientific name Chlorodrepanis stejnegeri, is a small bird that graces the island of Kauaʻi with its presence. It is a member of the Hawaiian honeycreepers and is recognized by its greenish-yellow plumage and distinctive black lores. The bird's most notable feature is its large, sickle-shaped, down-curved beak, which is particularly larger in males, who also boast a more vibrant coloration compared to the females' duller hues.

Identification Tips

When observing the Kauaʻi ʻamakihi, look for a bird with a greenish-yellow body and black lores. The males are slightly more colorful and have larger beaks than the females. The species can be distinguished from other ʻamakihi species by its duller feathers and more pronounced beak.

Habitat

The Kauaʻi ʻamakihi is fond of the higher elevations of the Kauaʻi mountains, typically above 600 meters. These birds have a particular affinity for ʻōhiʻa and koa trees, which provide them with both food and nesting opportunities.

Distribution

Endemic to the island of Kauaʻi, the Kauaʻi ʻamakihi can be found in locations such as Waimea Canyon, Nā Pali Plateau, Alakaʻi Swamp, and Makaleha Mountains. While they once frequented lower elevations, habitat loss has pushed them to reside mostly in mountainous areas.

Breeding

The Kauaʻi ʻamakihi often nests in ʻōhiʻa trees, taking advantage of the forest's resources for raising its young.

Similar Species

The Kauaʻi ʻamakihi shares similar physical features with the extinct Kauaʻi nukupuʻu, although the latter is no longer present to compare.

Conservation status

The Kauaʻi ʻamakihi is currently classified as Vulnerable by BirdLife International. Despite steady population numbers, it faces threats from habitat loss, invasive species, and avian malaria, although it has proven to be more resilient than other honeycreeper species.