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Greater Amakihi

Birds NameGreater amakihi
Science NameViridonia sagittirostris
DomainEukaryota
KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPasseriformes
FamilyFringillidae
Genus† ViridoniaRothschild, 1892
Species† V.sagittirostris

The Greater Amakihi (Viridonia sagittirostris), also known as the Green Solitaire, was a species of Hawaiian honeycreeper that once thrived on the Island of Hawaii. This bird, now extinct, was a unique and integral part of Hawaii’s ecosystem. Its story is one of beauty, tragedy, and the impacts of human intervention on nature.

The Greater Amakihi was a striking bird with distinct physical features that set it apart from other honeycreepers. Measuring about 6 inches in length, it was the largest known species of Amakihi. The bird’s plumage was primarily yellow, with brownish wings that provided a stark contrast to its bright body. Its tail was notched, and it had a distinctive whitish, pointed beak that was well-adapted for its diet.

One of the more unique aspects of the Greater Amakihi was its legs, which were described as blackish brown. However, it was noted by naturalists of the time that the legs exhibited a beautiful blue hue that faded to nearly black a few days after the bird’s death. This striking feature added to the bird’s allure and mystery.

Taxonomy

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Aves
  • Order: Passeriformes
  • Family: Fringillidae
  • Subfamily: Carduelinae
  • Genus: Viridonia
  • Species: V. sagittirostris

The Greater Amakihi was part of the family Fringillidae, commonly known as the finch family. It belonged to the subfamily Carduelinae, which includes various species of finches and Hawaiian honeycreepers. The species was first described by the British ornithologist Lionel Walter Rothschild in 1892, who recognized its distinct features and unique placement within the honeycreeper lineage.

Distribution, Range, and Population

Historical Range

The Greater Amakihi was endemic to the Island of Hawaii, meaning it was found nowhere else in the world. Its range was extremely limited, confined to a small tract of forest in the Hilo area. The bird’s population was likely small and localized, contributing to its vulnerability to environmental changes and human activities.

Population Estimates

Given the bird’s restricted range and the limited number of sightings, it is believed that the Greater Amakihi population was never large. The last confirmed sighting of the species was in 1901, shortly before its habitat was destroyed by the expansion of sugarcane plantations. Although there are no precise population estimates, it is likely that the species existed in very low numbers, making it highly susceptible to extinction.

Habitat

The Greater Amakihi inhabited a specific type of forest on the Island of Hawaii, characterized by dense vegetation, including vines and trees that provided ample foraging opportunities. The bird was often observed creeping through the foliage in search of insects, which formed a significant part of its diet.

Habitat Characteristics

  • Location: Island of Hawaii, particularly around Hilo
  • Elevation: Likely mid-elevation forests
  • Vegetation: Dense forest with abundant vines and trees, including ʻōhiʻa (Metrosideros polymorpha)
  • Climate: Tropical, with consistent temperatures and high humidity

The forest environment where the Greater Amakihi lived was rich in biodiversity, supporting a variety of plant and animal species. The bird’s preference for such a habitat indicates its reliance on the availability of specific food sources and the need for suitable nesting sites.

Behavior

Foraging and Feeding

The Greater Amakihi was an insectivorous bird, primarily feeding on insects it found within the dense forest vegetation. It was observed moving through the vines and trees in search of food, using its pointed beak to extract insects from crevices and bark. There are also reports suggesting that the bird may have occasionally fed on nectar from ʻōhiʻa trees, although this was not its primary food source.

Social Behavior

There is limited information about the social behavior of the Greater Amakihi, but like many honeycreepers, it was likely a solitary or pair-bonding species. Its small population size and restricted range may have contributed to its limited social interactions.

Breeding

Little is known about the breeding habits of the Greater Amakihi. However, based on the behavior of other Hawaiian honeycreepers, it is likely that the species had a similar breeding cycle, with nests built in trees or shrubs and a small clutch of eggs. The bird’s yellow plumage might have played a role in mate attraction, a common trait among brightly colored bird species.

Breeding Season

  • Probable Season: Spring to early summer
  • Nest Type: Likely a cup-shaped nest made of twigs and plant fibers
  • Clutch Size: Estimated 2-3 eggs based on related species

Threats

The extinction of the Greater Amakihi can be directly linked to habitat destruction caused by human activities. The bird’s only known habitat was cleared in 1901 to make way for sugarcane plantations, a common agricultural practice in Hawaii during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Major Threats

  • Habitat Destruction: The conversion of forest land to agricultural use was the primary threat to the Greater Amakihi. The clearing of its habitat for sugarcane plantations led to the complete loss of its environment, leaving the species with no place to live or breed.
  • Small Population Size: The species’ limited range and small population made it highly vulnerable to extinction. Any significant disturbance to its habitat could have catastrophic effects on its survival.
  • Lack of Awareness: The Greater Amakihi was unknown to native Hawaiians and was only discovered by Western naturalists in the late 19th century. The lack of awareness and understanding of the species likely contributed to the lack of conservation efforts during its decline.

Migration

There is no evidence to suggest that the Greater Amakihi was a migratory species. Like many other Hawaiian honeycreepers, it was likely a sedentary bird, remaining within its restricted range year-round.

Extinction

The extinction of the Greater Amakihi is a poignant reminder of the fragility of island ecosystems. The last confirmed sighting of the bird was in 1901, and despite subsequent searches, no individuals were ever found again. The transformation of its habitat into agricultural land sealed the fate of this unique species, which had already been struggling due to its small population and limited range.

Extinction Timeline

  • Late 1800s: The species is discovered by naturalist Henry Palmer.
  • 1892: Official description of the species by Rothschild.
  • 1901: Last confirmed sighting of the Greater Amakihi.
  • Early 20th Century: The bird is declared extinct as its habitat is destroyed and no further sightings are reported.

Table Comparison: Greater Amakihi vs. Hawaii Amakihi

FeatureGreater Amakihi (Viridonia sagittirostris)Hawaiʻi Amakihi (Chlorodrepanis virens)
Size6 inches4 inches
PlumageYellow body, brownish wingsGreenish-yellow body
Beak ColorWhitishBlack
HabitatDense forest, restricted to Hilo areaDiverse habitats across Hawaii
DietPrimarily insects, possibly some nectarInsects, nectar, and fruit
Conservation StatusExtinctLeast Concern
Last Sighting1901N/A

Conclusion

The Greater Amakihi was a unique and beautiful bird that once inhabited the lush forests of Hawaii. Its extinction, driven by habitat destruction and the expansion of agriculture, serves as a stark reminder of the impact humans can have on vulnerable species. Today, the story of the Greater Amakihi is a call to action for the conservation of the remaining Hawaiian honeycreepers and other endangered species. By preserving their habitats and understanding the importance of biodiversity, we can help ensure that no more species are lost to history.

This bird, now only a memory, reminds us of the rich natural heritage that once flourished in Hawaii’s forests and the ongoing need to protect what remains.

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