Welcome to the beautiful city of Hawaiian Gardens! Home to a great variety of birds, this city offers a unique opportunity for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. From colorful parrots to majestic hawks, there’s something for everyone here.
With its vast open spaces, lush vegetation, and ample food sources, Hawaiian Gardens is a bird-watcher’s paradise. From the comfort of your backyard, you can observe a wide variety of birds, from the bright and colorful parakeets to the more elusive and majestic hawks.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting, Hawaiian Gardens is the perfect place to explore the great outdoors. So come and enjoy the sights and sounds of Hawaiian Gardens’ birds!
1. Nene
The nene, also known as the nēnē or the Hawaiian goose, is a species of bird that is only found in the Hawaiian Islands. It is an endemic species, meaning it is only found in this region and nowhere else in the world.
The nene is primarily found on the islands of Oahu, Maui, Kaua’i, Molokai, and Hawai’i. Due to its rarity, the nene has been given special status by the state of Hawaii.
In 1957, it was officially designated as the state bird of Hawaii, making it the only state bird in the United States that is a species of goose.
This designation gives the nene extra legal protections, raising awareness of its endangered status and helping to promote its conservation. The nene is threatened by numerous factors, including the destruction of its natural habitat and the introduction of invasive species.
To protect the species, conservation organizations such as the Hawaiian Wildlife Fund are working to protect the nene’s natural habitats and to reduce the threats posed by invasive species.
Additionally, the state of Hawaii has instituted numerous protective measures, including the creation of protected areas and the implementation of hunting regulations.
The nene is an important species in Hawaii and its status as the state bird serves as a reminder of the need to conserve its natural habitat and ensure its continued survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Branta |
| Species | B. sandvicensis |
2. Hawaiian Coot
The Hawaiian coot is a species of bird that is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. It is part of the Rallidae family, which is commonly known as the rail family. The Hawaiian name for the bird is ʻalae ke’oke’o, with ʻalae meaning mud hen and kea or its synonym keo meaning white.
The Hawaiian coot is similar in size to the American coot, with a length of 33 to 40.6 cm and a weight of around 700 g. This bird species is important for the Hawaiian Islands as it helps to maintain the local biodiversity and ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Fulica |
| Species | F. alai |
3. Hawaiian Crow
The Hawaiian crow, or ʻalalā, is a species of bird in the family Corvidae. It is currently extinct in the wild, though efforts to reintroduce it have been ongoing. The Hawaiian crow is about the same size as the carrion crow, measuring 48–50 cm in length.
However, it has more rounded wings and a much thicker bill, which sets it apart from the carrion crow. The Hawaiian crow is a unique species, and its reintroduction could be beneficial to the Hawaiian ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Corvus |
| Species | C. hawaiiensis |
4. Akiapola’au
The ʻakiapōlāʻau is an endemic bird species native to the island of Hawaii. It is a type of Hawaiian honeycreeper, meaning it has a unique beak and diet that allows it to feed on nectar and insects.
The ʻakiapōlāʻau is most commonly found in dry and montane moist forests, and it is the only bird species on the island to occupy the woodpecker niche.
This means that the ʻakiapōlāʻau is the only bird on the island that feeds in the manner of a woodpecker, by probing and pecking into trees and other hard surfaces to find food.
The ʻakiapōlāʻau is an important species to the Hawaiian ecology, as it helps maintain a balance between the different types of birds on the island, all of which play an important role in the island’s food web.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Hemignathus |
| Species | H. wilsoni |
5. House Finch
The House Finch is a species of bird that belongs to the finch family, known as Fringillidae. It is native to the western part of North America but has been introduced to the eastern parts of the continent, as well as Hawaii.
This bird species, along with two other species of American rosefinches, are all placed under the genus Haemorhous. The House Finch is a small bird, usually between four to six inches in length. Its plumage is a variety of colors, ranging from light brown to reddish-brown.
The male has a bright red head and throat, while the female is duller with a dark brown head and yellowish-brown throat. This species is found in open woodlands, parks and gardens, where they feed on a variety of seeds, grains, fruits, and insects.
They are also known to forage in bird feeders, making them popular with bird watchers. The House Finch is a very social bird, often seen in flocks, and their song is a pleasant trill.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Haemorhous |
| Species | H. mexicanus |
6. Red-Crested Cardinal
The red-crested cardinal is a species of songbird that is part of the family of tanagers. It is not closely related to the true cardinal family, which is why it is sometimes referred to as the Brazilian cardinal.
This species is easily recognizable due to its distinct red crest, which appears in both males and females. The red-crested cardinal is found across much of South America, in countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay.
The bird prefers tropical and subtropical habitats, typically living in humid forests and woodlands near bodies of water. It feeds primarily on fruit, but will also take small insects and other invertebrates.
This species is known for its melodious song, which is usually heard during the early morning and evening. The red-crested cardinal is relatively common in its range, and its population is considered to be stable.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Thraupidae |
| Genus | Paroaria |
| Species | P. coronata |
7. Hawaiian Hawk
The Hawaiian hawk, or ʻio, is a species of hawk that is native to Hawaii and only found on the Big Island. It belongs to the genus Buteo, a group of raptors which includes buzzards and hawks.
The Hawaiian hawk is a relatively small hawk, with a wingspan of 2-3 feet and a length of about 16 inches. The plumage of the Hawaiian hawk is mostly brown, with white on the breast and belly.
The head is dark brown with a pale yellow patch on its forehead. The Hawaiian hawk is a solitary species that is mainly active during the day. It feeds mainly on small mammals, lizards, and insects.
It nests in trees, usually high up in the foliage, and lays a clutch of two to three eggs. It is a territorial species, and it will aggressively defend its territory against intruders. The Hawaiian hawk is currently listed as endangered by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
This is due to the loss of its habitat and the introduction of new predators into its range. Conservation efforts to save the Hawaiian hawk are underway, including the captive breeding of the species and the reintroduction of birds into the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Buteo |
| Species | B. solitarius |
8. Apapane
The ‘apapane is a vibrant species of Hawaiian honeycreeper native to the Hawaiian Islands. It is the most widespread honeycreeper and can be found in numerous areas across the islands of Hawai’i, Maui, Lāna’i, Kaua’i, Moloka’i, and O’ahu.
The ‘apapane is a small bird, typically measuring in at around 5-7 inches in length, with a bright red coloration that stands out against its lush green and blue surroundings.
The ‘apapane has a distinctively curved bill, which it uses to feed on various nectar sources, such as flowers and fruits. Its wings are long and slender, allowing it to zip through the air with ease.
It is a highly social bird, often found in large flocks, and is known for its beautiful singing voice. The ‘apapane is an important part of the Hawaiian ecosystem, playing a role in the pollination of native plants and aiding in the growth of the native vegetation.
It is considered to be a symbol of Hawaiian culture and is a treasured part of the Hawaiian Islands.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Himatione |
| Species | H. sanguinea |
9. Maui Parrotbill
The Maui parrotbill or kiwikiu is an endangered species of Hawaiian honeycreeper that is endemic to the island of Maui in Hawaii. It is estimated that there are only a few hundred of these birds left in the wild.
The Maui parrotbill can only be found in an area of 50 square kilometers of mesic and wet forests located on the windward slopes of Haleakalā, at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,150 meters.
The kiwikiu is a small bird with a distinctive beak, which it uses to feed on insects, nectar, and fruit. It is an important part of the Hawaiian forest ecosystem and plays an important role in the pollination of native plants.
The Maui parrotbill is threatened by habitat loss, as well as predation by introduced species and competition with other native birds. Conservation efforts are underway to protect and restore the Maui parrotbill’s habitat and to prevent its extinction.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Pseudonestor |
| Species | P. xanthophrys |
10. Hawaiian Petrel
The Hawaiian petrel, also known as ‘ua’u, is a species of seabird that is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. It is a large bird, with a wingspan of up to 1.5 meters, and is dark grey-brown and white.
The petrel spends most of its life at sea, only returning to land to breed, with its main nesting sites in the Big Island, Maui, and Kauai. The petrel is a critically endangered species, with its population estimated to be around 5,000 individuals.
It is threatened by loss of habitat, as well as predation by introduced species such as cats, mongoose, and rats.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect the species, with the establishment of sanctuaries and the implementation of protective measures such as the removal of invasive species.
The Hawaiian petrel is an important species in the Hawaiian ecosystem, playing a key role in the dispersal of nutrients and energy between the islands and the ocean.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Procellariiformes |
| Family | Procellariidae |
| Genus | Pterodroma |
| Species | P. sandwichensis |
11. Hawaiian Duck
The Hawaiian duck, also known as the Koloa, is a species of bird that is endemic to the large islands of Hawaiʻi. This means that it is not found anywhere else in the world. It belongs to the family Anatidae, which includes most waterfowl such as ducks and geese.
The Koloa is closely related to the mallard, but it differs in its appearance. Rather than having the colorful feathers of the mallard, it is monochromatic, meaning that its feathers are all the same color.
Additionally, it does not migrate like other waterfowl but instead stays in the Hawaiian islands year-round. This is likely due to its lack of predators and the abundance of food available in the area.
The Koloa is an important part of the Hawaiian ecosystem and helps to maintain balance within the environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. wyvilliana |
12. Northern Cardinal
The northern cardinal, scientifically known as Cardinalis, is a popular bird in North America. This species is also known colloquially as the redbird, common cardinal, red cardinal, or just cardinal due to its distinctive red coloring.
This bird is found in eastern and central parts of the United States and southeastern parts of Canada, as well as some parts of Mexico. The northern cardinal has a strong and thick beak, a round body, and a long tail.
The male northern cardinal is a bright red color, while the females are a duller reddish-brown color. They both have a black face mask. The northern cardinal is a songbird, and its call is a loud “cheer-cheer-cheer” noise. They feed on a variety of seeds, fruits, and insects.
Northern cardinals are found in backyard gardens, parks, and woodlands. They are also known to visit bird feeders for food. The northern cardinal is a popular bird in North America and is often seen as a symbol of beauty and resilience.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Cardinalis |
| Species | C. cardinalis |
13. Rose-Ringed Parakeet
The rose-ringed parakeet, also known as the ring-necked parakeet, is a type of bird belonging to the Psittacidae family. It is a medium-sized parrot with a body length of about 12 inches and a wingspan of about 20 inches.
The parakeet has a distinctive bright green body with a white ring around its neck and a yellowish-green head. Its feathers have a glossy sheen and it has a long tail with pointed feathers. This parakeet is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia.
It is found in woodlands, forests, grasslands, agricultural areas, and urban parks. The parakeet typically feeds on fruits, seeds, nuts, and buds. It may also eat insects and other invertebrates.
This bird is known to be quite vocal and can be heard in the morning and evening hours. The rose-ringed parakeet is a highly adaptable species and can be found in many parts of the world. It is kept as a pet in many countries as well.
This bird has been known to form large flocks and has become an invasive species in some countries. Overall, the rose-ringed parakeet is a beautiful and interesting bird with a unique appearance. It is a highly adaptable species and can be found in many parts of the world.
Its diet is quite varied and its vocalizations can be heard in the morning and evening hours.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Psittaciformes |
| Family | Psittaculidae |
| Genus | Psittacula |
| Species | P. krameri |
14. House Sparrow
The house sparrow is a small bird of the Passeridae family, found in many parts of the world. It measures an average of 16 cm in length and can weigh anywhere from 24 to 39.5 grams.
Females and young birds are usually pale brown and grey, while males have brighter and more distinct black, white, and brown markings. These markings can be used to distinguish the male house sparrow from the female.
The house sparrow is a common sight in many parts of the world and can be found in urban, suburban, and rural settings. It feeds on seeds, grains, and insects, and can often be seen in flocks at bird feeders.
It is an adaptable species and has been able to thrive in many different habitats, making it one of the most successful birds in the world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passeridae |
| Genus | Passer |
| Species | P. domesticus |
15. Warbling White-Eye
The warbling white-eye is a small bird species belonging to the white-eye family. It is also known as the Japanese white-eye or mountain white-eye. The species’ specific epithet is sometimes written as japonica, but this is incorrect because the genus name is of feminine gender.
Warbling white eyes typically have greenish-olive upperparts, yellow underparts, and a yellowish-white eye ring that encircles the dark eye. The bill is thin and pointed, and the tail is short and pointed as well.
Warbling white-eyes are found in Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines. They usually inhabit open woodland and scrub and are often found in gardens and parks. They feed mainly on small insects and spiders, but also on fruits and nectar.
Warbling white-eyes are active and social birds and are often seen in small flocks. They have a distinctive, chirping song that is often heard in the early morning.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Zosteropidae |
| Genus | Zosterops |
| Species | Z. japonicus |
16. Palila
The Palila is a unique bird species native to the Hawaiian Islands. It is a member of the Honeycreeper family, which is known for its brightly colored plumage and melodious singing.
The Palila is a particularly striking bird, with a vivid golden-yellow head and breast, a light grey back and tail, and greenish wings. This colorful combination gives the Palila a brilliant yet elegant look. Unfortunately, the palila is a critically endangered species.
Its population has been declining for decades due to the destruction of its native habitat and the introduction of non-native predators and competitors. As a result, the palila is now confined to a small strip of high-elevation habitat on the slopes of Mauna Kea.
The Palila is also a finch-billed species, meaning it uses its beak to feed on insects and seed heads. It is one of the few Hawaiian honeycreepers to feed in this manner, and it helps to keep the island’s forests healthy.
Unfortunately, its decline has had a significant impact on the health of Hawaiian forests, as the palila is an important part of the ecosystem. The Palila is an incredibly beautiful and unique species, and we must take action to protect it.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect the palila and its habitat, but more needs to be done to ensure its survival. If we don’t act now, this unique species may soon become just a memory.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Loxioides |
| Species | L. bailleui |
17. ʻŌmaʻo
The ʻōmaʻo, also known as the Hawaiian thrush, is an endemic species of bird found only on the island of Hawaii. Endemic species are unique to their region, and the ʻōmaʻo is no exception.
This robin-like bird is closely related to the other endemic thrushes of the Hawaiian Islands, the kāmaʻo, the olomaʻo, and the puaiohi. All of these species of birds have adapted to the island’s environment, and are found nowhere else in the world.
The ʻōmaʻo is a small bird, with a grayish-brown body and a yellow chest. Its wings are short and rounded, and its tail is often long and pointed. This species of bird is an omnivore, and its diet consists of insects, fruits, and seeds.
The ʻōmaʻo is one of the most recognizable birds of the Hawaiian Islands, and it is found in many different habitats, including forests, shrublands, and grasslands. This species is also known to be a good songbird, and its song is often heard throughout the island.
The ʻōmaʻo is an important species for the Hawaiian Islands, as it helps to keep the island’s ecosystem in balance. This species helps to disperse seeds, and it also serves as a food source for other species.
Unfortunately, the ʻōmaʻo is threatened by habitat destruction and the introduction of non-native species. Conservation efforts are being made to protect this endemic species and ensure its future.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Myadestes |
| Species | M. obscurus |
18. Java Sparrow
The Java sparrow is a very popular bird that is found in Indonesia. It’s scientific name is Estrildid finch and it is a small passerine bird. This bird is a resident breeding bird in the islands of Java, Bali, and Bawean.
This bird is often kept as a pet since it is known to be quite good-natured and is often kept in cages. The Java sparrow has also been introduced to several other countries as a pet bird. It is well known for its beautiful plumage and sweet singing voice.
It is an omnivore and feeds on grains, fruits, insects, and worms. The Java sparrow is an important species in Indonesia since it is an important part of the ecosystem and is known to help pollinate plants. It is a protected species and the population is monitored regularly.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Estrildidae |
| Genus | Padda |
| Species | P. oryzivora |
19. Hawaiʻi ʻakepa
The Hawaiʻi ʻakepa is an endangered species of finch native to the Hawaiian Islands. It is a monotypic species, meaning that all of its members have the same physical characteristics.
The Hawaiʻi ʻakepa was first encountered by Western science in 1779, during Captain James Cook’s third voyage around the world.
In 2015, the North American Classification Committee (NACC) of the American Ornithologists’ Union (AOU) split the Hawaiʻi ʻakepa into three distinct species.
As a result, it is now considered to be an umbrella species, with multiple species under its original designation. The Hawaiʻi ʻakepa is classified as an endangered species due to its small population size and limited range.
The birds are also threatened by habitat loss and predation from introduced species.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect the species, including the establishment of protected areas, the introduction of predator control measures, and the creation of captive breeding programs.
The long-term survival of the Hawaiʻi ʻakepa depends on the success of these efforts.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Loxops |
| Species | L. coccineus |
20. Hawaiian Honeycreepers
Hawaiian honeycreepers are a unique group of small birds that are only found in the Hawaiian Islands. They are members of the finch family Fringillidae, which is related to the rosefinches.
However, the Hawaiian honeycreepers have evolved features that are not seen in any other finch. This is due to the unique conditions of the Hawaiian islands, which have allowed the birds to develop unique characteristics to survive.
These features include a wide variety of beak shapes, sizes, and colors, as well as different types of feathers. The Hawaiian honeycreepers also have adapted to the island’s limited resources by developing an omnivorous diet.
This means that the birds can eat both plants and animals to survive.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
21. White-Rumped Shama
The white-rumped shama is a small passerine bird that belongs to the family Muscicapidae. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia where it lives in densely vegetated habitats.
Due to its melodic voice and beauty, it has become a popular cage bird and songster, leading to its introduction in other parts of the world. It is known for its unique vocalizations, which can be heard in the morning and evening.
Its song has a melodic quality that has made it a favorite among bird enthusiasts. The shama is also known for its striking black and white plumage, with a white rump that is most visible during flight.
The white-rumped shama is a shy bird, preferring to keep to the shadows and dense vegetation. It is a ground-dweller, foraging for insects, fruits, and seeds on the forest floor. It is also known to feed on berries and nectar from flowers.
The white-rumped shama is an important species in the world of birds, as its presence is an indicator of healthy forest ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Muscicapidae |
| Genus | Copsychus |
| Species | C. malabaricus |
22. Red-Billed Leitrim
The red-billed leiothrix is a small and colorful bird belonging to the family Leiothrichidae. It is native to Southern China and the Himalayas, two regions with diverse landscapes and climates.
The bird has a mostly olive-green body with a bright red bill and a yellow ring around its eyes. Additionally, it has a black head and neck, a black tail, and a white throat. Its wings are olive green with a white bar on the underside.
The red-billed leiothrix is a very vocal bird, often singing from the treetops. Its song is a mix of whistles and trills, making it a pleasant sound to hear. It is also a very social bird, flocking together with other birds in large groups.
It feeds mostly on insects, invertebrates, and fruits, foraging in the trees and on the ground. The red-billed leiothrix is a beautiful and interesting bird, and it is a delight to watch in its natural habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Leiothrichidae |
| Genus | Leiothrix |
| Species | L. lutea |
23. Red-Footed Booby
The red-footed booby is a species of large seabird that belongs to the Sulidae family. These birds are recognizable by their always red feet and varying plumage colours.
They are known for their powerful and agile skills when it comes to flying but can be quite clumsy when it comes to take-offs and landings. This species of booby can be found widely in tropical areas and tend to breed in colonies, usually on coastal regions and islands.
Red-footed boobies are strong swimmers and feed on a variety of fish, squid, and crustaceans. They catch their prey by diving from the air into the water, and they are capable of reaching depths of up to 50 metres.
This species of booby has a lifespan of up to 25 years and can be found in large colonies, with over 1000 individuals in some cases. They are monogamous and they form strong pair bonds, which can last for many years.
The red-footed booby is an important part of the marine ecosystem, playing an essential role in the balance of the marine food web.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Sulidae |
| Genus | Sula |
| Species | S. sula |
24. Laysan Duck
The Laysan duck, also known as the Laysan teal, is a species of dabbling duck typically found in the Hawaiian Islands. It is an endemic species, meaning it is not found anywhere else in the world.
Fossil evidence indicates that this species used to inhabit the entire archipelago, but today it is only found in three locations: Laysan Island, and two atolls.
This is a result of human-induced environmental changes such as habitat destruction, introduced predators, and competition with other species. These changes have caused the Laysan duck to become one of the rarest species of waterfowl in the world.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect this species and its habitat. These include the creation of sanctuaries, the elimination of destructive practices, and the implementation of a captive breeding program.
By protecting the Laysan duck, we also help to preserve the unique biodiversity of the Hawaiian Islands.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. laysanensis |
Conclusion
Birds are an important part of Hawaiian Gardens. They provide food for many different species of animals, provide entertainment for humans, and help to keep the environment balanced.
While some birds may be considered pests, the majority of them are beneficial to the environment. Bird watching is a popular activity in the area, and bird sanctuaries have been established to protect and preserve these birds.
With proper management and conservation, Hawaiian Gardens can continue to provide a safe and healthy environment for its avian inhabitants.