The kiwikiu or Maui parrotbill is a species of Hawaiian honeycreeper endemic to the island of Maui in Hawaii. It can only be found in 50 square kilometres (19 sq mi) of mesic and wet forests at 1,200–2,150 metres (3,940–7,050 ft) on the windward slopes of Haleakalā. This species is critically endangered, with an estimated population in 2016 of 250-540 individuals, but more recent estimates of less than 150 individuals. Fossil evidence indicates that the bird could at one time be seen in dry forests at elevations as low as 200–300 metres (660–980 ft), as well as on the island of Molokaʻi.
Region
Hawaiian Islands (Maui)
Typical Environment
Restricted to mesic and wet montane native forests on the windward slopes of Haleakalā, primarily in koa (Acacia koa) and ‘ōhi‘a (Metrosideros polymorpha) forest. The occupied range is extremely small, roughly 50 km², with patchy occupancy. Birds favor intact native canopy with dense understory of ferns and native shrubs and avoid degraded or mosquito-prone lower elevations. Fossil and historical evidence indicate it formerly used lower, drier forests and also occurred on Molokaʻi.
Altitude Range
1200–2150 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the kiwikiu, the Maui parrotbill is a Hawaiian honeycreeper specialized for cracking twigs and bark to extract insect larvae. Its powerful, hooked bill is among the most robust of the honeycreepers, allowing it to pry wood like a miniature woodpecker. The species is one of Hawaiʻi’s most imperiled forest birds, now confined to a small slice of high-elevation forest on east Maui.
Illustration by Frederick William Frohawk
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, bounding flights between trees
Social Behavior
Typically seen as pairs or small family groups, maintaining year-round territories. Pairs form long-term bonds and nest high in native trees, often in ‘ōhi‘a. Clutch size is usually one, with prolonged parental care and slow juvenile development.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of clear, whistled notes and short phrases, often a series of high, sweet whistles that carry through the forest. Calls include sharp chips and metallic notes, with a distinctive, soft yet penetrating quality.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with yellower head and underparts; texture smooth with subtle, diffuse shading. The face shows a distinct yellow supercilium and cheeks, contrasting with darker lores. The heavy, hooked bill is striking and parrot-like.
Diet
Primarily insect larvae, especially beetle and moth larvae gleaned or pried from dead wood, bark, and twigs. Uses its powerful bill to split or lever apart branches and expose hidden grubs. Also takes spiders and other arthropods, and only occasionally nectar or small fruits.
Preferred Environment
Forages in native koa-‘ōhi‘a forest, mainly in the midstory and canopy where dead wood and epiphytes are common. Prefers intact, humid forest with minimal invasive plants and a complex vertical structure.
