The I'iwi, a dazzling resident of the Hawaiian Islands, captivates with its bright scarlet feathers, contrasting black wings and tail, and a distinctive long, curved bill ideal for nectar feeding. This Hawaiian finch is not just a pretty sight; it plays a crucial role in pollinating the native ‘ōhi’a trees, especially during its peak breeding season from February to June.
Recent estimates put the I'iwi population around 600,000, with a significant 90% residing on the island of Hawai'i and about 10% on East Maui. Kaua'i, however, tells a different story, with a rapidly declining population. These birds are a crucial part of the island's ecosystem, but they face threats from habitat loss and diseases like avian malaria, which have drastically impacted their numbers.
Today, the I'iwi continues to be a symbol of Hawaii's natural heritage, their vibrant presence a reminder of the islands' rich biodiversity and the ongoing efforts needed to conserve these unique species.
Earlier this month, the Iiwi ('I'iwi), a beautiful Hawaiian finch, was introduced as the American Birding Association's Bird of the Year for 2018. We think it's an interesting and excellent choice! In 2016 Hawaii was added the ABA Birding area by popular... Read more »
This week's featured t-shirt is this Hawaiian-style 'I'iwi. The 'I'iwi, also known as the Scarlet Hawaiian Honeycreeper, is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. It has a long curved bill that it uses to drink nectar. Although there are large colonies of 'I'iwis on the islands of... Read more »
