The Oʻahu ʻelepaio is a monarch flycatcher endemic to the Hawaiian Island of Oʻahu. It is one of the three distinct, closely related species of ʻelepaio native to the Hawaiian archipelago, including the Hawaiʻi ʻelepaio and the Kauʻi ʻelepaio. They are found in high elevations on the slopes of Oʻahu and primarily consume insects. They are currently listed as vulnerable by the IUCN Red List, and ongoing work is being done to eliminate invasive predators and disease.
Region
Hawaiian Islands
Typical Environment
Endemic to Oʻahu, chiefly in the Waiʻanae and Koʻolau mountain ranges. It favors native mesic to wet forests dominated by ʻōhiʻa lehua and koa, as well as mixed native–non-native forest. Birds are most common at mid to higher elevations where mosquito-borne disease pressure is lower. They use forest edges, riparian gulches, and dense understory for foraging and nesting. Fragmented lowland habitats are used less frequently due to predators and disease.
Altitude Range
150–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Oʻahu ʻelepaio is a small monarch flycatcher found only on the island of Oʻahu. In Hawaiian culture, ʻelepaio were considered guardians of canoe makers, believed to reveal wormy wood by pecking at it. They are energetic, tail-flicking insect hunters that often approach humans curiously. Conservation actions, especially rat control and disease management, have helped some subpopulations stabilize or grow.
Kau'i 'elepaio (top), O'ahu 'elepaio (bottom)
Foraging O'ahu 'elepaio
Avian Malaria Life Cycle
Temperament
inquisitive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile sallying
Social Behavior
Typically found as pairs holding year-round territories; they are monogamous and both sexes participate in nest building and rearing young. Nests are small, cup-shaped structures placed on branches in the mid-canopy. They vigorously defend territories against intruders and engage in frequent tail-flicking displays.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied series of whistles, chips, and twitters, often delivered in quick phrases. Calls can sound scolding and sharp when alarmed, with softer contact notes between mates.
