Magumma parva
The Anianiau, or Hawai'i Creeper (Magumma parva), is a diminutive and vibrant member of the Hawaiian honeycreeper subfamily, Drepaniinae, endemic to the island of Kaua'i. Measuring a mere 10-11 cm (4-4.3 inches) in length and weighing 7-9 grams (0.25-0.32 ounces), it is the smallest of all extant Hawaiian honeycreepers. Adult males are predominantly bright golden-yellow across their head, back, and underparts, with a slightly paler belly and flanks, contrasting with dark lore and eyes. Female...
Found primarily in the high-elevation native wet forests of Kaua'i, typically above 600 meters, dominated by 'ōhi'a (Metrosideros polymorpha) and koa (Acacia koa) trees.
Primarily feeds on nectar from small, tubular flowers, particularly 'ōhi'a blossoms. They also consume a significant amount of small arthropods, gleaning them from bark, leaves, and mosses.
Anianiau are active, diurnal birds, constantly moving as they forage high in the canopy or in the understory. They exhibit a unique foraging strategy, gleaning insects from bark and foliage while also skillfully hovering to extract nectar from small flowers. Males establish and defend small breed...
The Anianiau is strictly endemic to the island of Kaua'i, Hawai'i, where its distribution is now severely restricted. Historically, it was widespread throughout Kaua'i's native wet forests from sea level up to the highest elevations. However, its current range is largely confined to the remaining...
Endangered
- The Anianiau is the smallest of all living Hawaiian honeycreepers, weighing less than a quarter of an ounce. - Its name, 'Anianiau', is an onomatopoeic Hawaiian word, mimicking its characteristic high-pitched, buzzy call. - Despite its tiny size, it is an incredibly agile flier, capable of sust...