The lesser ʻakialoa is an extinct species of Hawaiian honeycreeper in the subfamily Carduelinae of the family Fringillidae. It was endemic to the island of Hawaiʻi. It became extinct due to habitat loss and disappeared at around the same time as its Oʻahu relative.
Region
Hawaiian Islands
Typical Environment
Formerly restricted to native forests of Hawaiʻi Island, especially ʻōhiʻa–koa woodlands. It foraged in the canopy and subcanopy, probing flowers and crevices for nectar and arthropods. As disease pressure increased at lower elevations, it likely retreated upslope into cooler, wetter forests. The species disappeared as lowland habitats were cleared and mosquitoes spread avian malaria into mid-elevations.
Altitude Range
300–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The lesser ʻakialoa was a long-billed Hawaiian honeycreeper that used its slender, decurved bill to probe blossoms and bark for nectar and insects. It was endemic to Hawaiʻi Island and likely vanished by the late 19th century. Habitat loss, introduced mosquitoes and avian diseases, and predation by invasive mammals contributed to its decline.
Illustration
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick darts between trees
Social Behavior
Typically observed singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Likely formed monogamous pairs and nested in trees, constructing cup nests from plant fibers. Territorial behavior around rich flowering trees was probable, as with related honeycreepers.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Thin, high-pitched notes and soft, sibilant chips carried through the canopy. Song likely included short, squeaky phrases interspersed with contact calls around feeding sites.
