ʻIʻiwi

The ʻIʻiwi (Drepanis coccinea) is a species of Hawaiian honeycreeper endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. It is a vibrant red bird with a curved beak, adapted for feeding on the nectar of ʻōhiʻa lehua flowers. The ʻIʻiwi is an important pollinator in Hawaiian forests and holds cultural significance in Hawaiian traditions.

Description:

The ʻIʻiwi is a medium-sized bird, measuring approximately 5.5 inches (14 cm) in length. Adult birds are predominantly scarlet red with black wings and tail. The beak is long, curved, and salmon-colored. Juveniles are initially mottled brown and olive-green, gradually acquiring their adult plumage as they mature.

Habitat and Distribution:

ʻIʻiwi are found in native forests across several Hawaiian Islands, including Hawaiʻi (the Big Island), Maui, Kauaʻi, and Molokaʻi. They prefer higher elevation forests with abundant ʻōhiʻa lehua trees, but their range has contracted due to habitat loss, disease, and introduced predators.

Diet and Feeding:

The ʻIʻiwi primarily feeds on nectar, using its specialized beak to access nectar within ʻōhiʻa lehua flowers. They also consume small invertebrates, particularly during the breeding season, to provide protein for their young.

Conservation Status:

The ʻIʻiwi is currently listed as Threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Its population has declined significantly due to habitat loss, avian malaria transmitted by introduced mosquitoes, and predation by introduced mammals such as rats and cats. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat restoration, mosquito control, and predator control.

Cultural Significance:

The ʻIʻiwi holds cultural significance in Hawaiian traditions. Its feathers were highly prized for use in featherwork, including capes, helmets, and lei. The bird is also mentioned in Hawaiian chants and legends.