The ʻiʻiwi or scarlet honeycreeper, is a species of Hawaiian honeycreeper. The ʻiʻiwi is a highly recognizable symbol of Hawaii.
Region
Hawaiian Islands, Central Pacific
Typical Environment
The ʻiʻiwi inhabits native montane wet and mesic forests dominated by ‘ōhi‘a lehua and koa. It is now concentrated on higher-elevation tracts of Hawaiʻi Island, Maui, and Kauaʻi, with only rare or historical occurrence on Oʻahu and Molokaʻi. Birds follow flowering events across the landscape, sometimes moving seasonally or elevationally. They prefer intact forest canopies with abundant nectar sources and low mosquito densities. Occasional foraging occurs in subalpine shrublands and, where available, flowering nonnative trees.
Altitude Range
1000–2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The ʻiʻiwi (scarlet honeycreeper) is one of Hawaiʻi’s most iconic native birds, famed for its brilliant scarlet plumage and long, downcurved bill. It is a key pollinator of native flowers, especially ‘ōhi‘a lehua and lobelioids, though it also visits some introduced blossoms. Today it survives mostly at higher elevations to avoid avian malaria carried by mosquitoes. Feathers of ʻiʻiwi were historically prized in Hawaiian culture for royal cloaks and capes.
Closeup
ʻIʻiwi in flight demonstrates its vivid colors
ʻIʻiwi in Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge
1890-1899 illustration. Male (top), female (bottom), juvenile (middle).
Temperament
active and territorial around rich nectar sources
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, direct flight; capable of brief hovering
Social Behavior
Often feeds singly or in small, loose groups, concentrating at flowering trees. Males may aggressively defend productive blossoms. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in the canopy; typical clutches are two eggs. Breeding generally coincides with peak ‘ōhi‘a flowering.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a mix of clear whistles, squeaks, and creaking notes, often delivered from high perches. Calls can sound metallic or squeaky, carrying well through the forest. Vocalizations vary by island and context.
Plumage
Bright scarlet body with glossy black wings and tail; sleek, close-fitting feathers.
Diet
Primarily feeds on nectar from native ‘ōhi‘a and lobeliads, using its decurved bill and brush-tipped tongue. It also consumes small insects and spiders gleaned from foliage and flower clusters, especially when nectar is scarce. The species occasionally visits introduced flowers such as eucalyptus, guava, or ornamental plantings. By moving between blossoms, it plays an important role in pollinating native plants.
Preferred Environment
Forages mostly in the upper canopy of wet and mesic native forests where flowering is abundant. It frequents edges and gaps when trees are in bloom and may exploit subalpine shrublands during seasonal flower peaks.
