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Hawaii Akepa

Birds NameHawaii akepa
Science NameLoxops coccineus
DomainEukaryota
KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPasseriformes
FamilyFringillidae
GenusLoxops
SpeciesL.coccineus

The Hawaii Akepa (Loxops coccineus) is a small, vibrant bird native to the Hawaiian Islands. This species is part of the Hawaiian honeycreeper family, which is renowned for its remarkable diversity in bill shapes and feeding strategies. The Hawaii Akepa is particularly known for its striking orange color in males and its unique crossed bill, which it uses to forage for food. Standing at just about 4 inches (10 cm) long, the Akepa is a relatively small bird, with females and juveniles exhibiting a more muted, dusty green coloration compared to the bright orange of the adult males.

The Hawaii Akepa belongs to the family Fringillidae and is classified under the genus Loxops. The species name coccineus is derived from the Latin word for “red,” reflecting the bright coloration of the males. Initially, all Akepa species were considered monotypic, meaning each species had only one form. However, in 2015, the North American Classification Committee (NACC) of the American Ornithological Union (AOU) split the Akepa into three distinct species based on genetic and morphological differences.

Taxonomy ClassificationDetails
KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPasseriformes
FamilyFringillidae
GenusLoxops
SpeciesLoxops coccineus

Distribution

The Hawaii Akepa is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world. Its range is primarily restricted to the high-elevation forests on the Big Island of Hawaii. These forests are composed of native trees such as ohia (Metrosideros polymorpha) and koa (Acacia koa), which provide critical habitat and food sources for the Akepa.

Range and Population

The population of the Hawaii Akepa is alarmingly low, with estimates suggesting fewer than 14,000 individuals remaining in the wild. This number has been declining due to habitat loss, disease, and predation by non-native species. The bird’s range is limited to just a few forested areas on the Big Island, particularly within the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, where conservation efforts are ongoing.

LocationEstimated Population
Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge~10,000
Mauna Loa~2,000
Other Areas~1,500

Habitat

The Hawaii Akepa inhabits montane forests, primarily at elevations between 1,200 and 2,000 meters. These forests are characterized by a mix of ohia and koa trees, which are essential for the bird’s survival. The Akepa relies on these trees for nesting, roosting, and feeding. The dense canopy provides protection from predators and harsh weather, while the abundant supply of insects and nectar serves as a food source.

Behavior

The Hawaii Akepa is a highly active and social bird, often seen in small flocks. It is known for its unique feeding behavior, which involves using its crossed bill to pry open leaf buds and extract insects hidden within. This specialized feeding strategy sets the Akepa apart from other honeycreepers, which typically feed on nectar or fruit.

Feeding

The diet of the Hawaii Akepa primarily consists of insects and spiders, which it finds by foraging in the foliage of ohia and koa trees. The bird’s crossed bill is perfectly adapted for this task, allowing it to access food sources that are unavailable to other species. In addition to insects, the Akepa also feeds on nectar, particularly from the flowers of the ohia tree, which provides a vital source of energy.

Food SourcePercentage of Diet
Insects & Spiders70%
Nectar20%
Fruit10%

Breeding

Breeding season for the Hawaii Akepa typically occurs from March to June. The species is monogamous, with pairs forming long-term bonds. Nests are built in the cavities of large ohia and koa trees, where the female lays a clutch of 1-3 eggs. Both parents are involved in raising the young, with the male primarily responsible for feeding the female while she incubates the eggs.

Breeding CharacteristicDetail
Breeding SeasonMarch to June
Clutch Size1-3 eggs
Nesting SiteCavities in ohia and koa trees
Parental CareBoth parents

Threats

The Hawaii Akepa faces numerous threats, many of which are the result of human activity. Habitat destruction due to logging and agriculture has reduced the available nesting sites and food sources for the species. Additionally, introduced species such as rats, mongoose, and feral cats prey on Akepa eggs and chicks, further reducing their numbers. Avian diseases, particularly avian malaria and pox, have also taken a significant toll on the population.

ThreatImpact Level
Habitat LossHigh
PredationMedium
DiseaseHigh
Climate ChangeIncreasing

Migration

The Hawaii Akepa is a non-migratory species, meaning it remains within its limited range throughout the year. However, the bird does exhibit some altitudinal movement, particularly during the breeding season when it may move to slightly lower elevations to find suitable nesting sites.

Conservation Efforts

Conservation efforts for the Hawaii Akepa are focused on habitat protection, predator control, and disease management. The Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge plays a crucial role in these efforts, providing a safe haven for the remaining population. In addition to habitat preservation, ongoing research aims to better understand the Akepa’s needs and develop strategies to mitigate the threats it faces.

Conclusion

The Hawaii Akepa is a remarkable bird, both for its striking appearance and its specialized feeding behavior. However, it is also a species in peril, with its population dwindling due to a variety of threats. Conservation efforts are critical to ensuring the survival of this unique species, and ongoing research and habitat protection will play a key role in its recovery. For bird enthusiasts and conservationists alike, the Hawaii Akepa serves as a reminder of the fragility of island ecosystems and the importance of preserving these natural treasures for future generations.

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