Drepanis coccinea
The 'I'iwi (pronounced ee-EE-vee) is arguably Hawaiʻi's most visually stunning native bird, resplendent in vibrant vermillion plumage offset by jet-black wings and tail. Measuring approximately 15 cm (6 inches) in length and weighing around 16-20 grams (0.56-0.71 oz), its most distinctive field mark is the dramatically decurved, salmon-pink bill, exquisitely adapted for probing tubular flowers. Taxonomically, it belongs to the Hawaiian honeycreeper subfamily Carduelinae within the finch famil...
The 'I'iwi primarily inhabits native wet and mesic forests, often dominated by 'ōhi'a (Metrosideros polymorpha) and koa (Acacia koa) trees, typically found at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 meters (3,300 to 6,600 feet).
Primarily nectar from native Hawaiian flowers, especially 'ōhi'a lehua blossoms, supplemented with insects and spiders gleaned from foliage.
The 'I'iwi is a highly active, diurnal bird, spending much of its day flitting energetically among flowering trees. Its distinctive decurved bill is a specialized tool for probing deep into the corollas of native flowers, particularly 'ōhi'a lehua blossoms, to extract nectar, a foraging technique...
Historically, the 'I'iwi was found on all the main Hawaiian Islands, ranging from sea level to the highest montane forests. However, its distribution has severely contracted, primarily due to habitat loss, avian malaria, and introduced predators. Today, its breeding and year-round range is largel...
Endangered
- The 'I'iwi's long, sickle-shaped bill is a perfect evolutionary match for the tubular flowers of native Hawaiian plants, particularly 'ōhi'a lehua, facilitating efficient nectar extraction. - In ancient Hawaiʻi, its brilliant red feathers were highly prized for crafting the magnificent 'ahu'ula...