The Hawaiʻi ʻamakihi, also known as the common ʻamakihi, is a species of Hawaiian honeycreeper.
Region
Hawaiian Islands
Typical Environment
Endemic to the central Hawaiian Islands, with strong populations on Hawaiʻi (Big Island) and also present on Maui and Molokaʻi in suitable forest. It occupies a broad range of habitats, including native ʻōhiʻa–koa forests, mesic and wet montane forests, and even degraded or non-native woodlands. The species is unusually tolerant of disease, which permits it to occur from high-elevation refugia down to some lowland areas. It forages widely from canopy to understory and readily uses flowering trees and shrubs around human settlements.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Hawaiʻi ʻamakihi is one of the most adaptable Hawaiian honeycreepers and remains common in many habitats, from native forests to disturbed areas. It shows notable tolerance to avian malaria compared to many other honeycreepers, allowing it to persist at lower elevations. Its slightly decurved bill lets it switch efficiently between nectar feeding and gleaning insects. Vocal and inquisitive, it is often one of the first native birds heard on forest trails.
Hawaiʻi ʻamakihi on Maui
Temperament
active and inquisitive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found singly, in pairs, or in small foraging groups; joins mixed-species flocks in productive feeding areas. Breeding pairs are territorial around nest sites, building a small cup nest high in dense foliage. Clutch size is typically small, and both parents contribute to feeding the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A lively series of sweet trills, chips, and twittering notes delivered rapidly and repeated frequently. Contact calls are sharp ‘tseek’ or ‘chip’ notes given while foraging.
