Myadestes lanaiensis
The Olomaʻo (Myadestes lanaiensis) is an enigmatic and critically endangered, likely extinct, member of the thrush family (Turdidae), endemic to the island of Lānaʻi in the Hawaiian archipelago. A medium-sized passerine, typically measuring around 18-19 cm (7-7.5 inches) in length and weighing approximately 34-40 grams (1.2-1.4 oz), it sported a rather plain yet elegant plumage. Its upperparts were dark olive-brown, contrasting with a rufous-brown undertail and flanks, and a pale grey throat ...
Historically, the Olomaʻo inhabited dense, wet montane forests on Lānaʻi, primarily within native ʻōhiʻa (Metrosideros polymorpha) and koa (Acacia koa) woodlands at elevations above 600 meters (2,000 feet).
The Olomaʻo was primarily frugivorous, feeding on a diverse array of native berries and fruits, supplemented by insects and other small invertebrates. It foraged by gleaning from vegetation, sallying, and ground foraging.
The Olomaʻo was largely a solitary and elusive diurnal bird, typically observed foraging alone or in pairs within the forest understory. Its foraging strategy was versatile, involving gleaning insects from foliage and bark, sallying to catch flying insects, and foraging on the ground for fallen b...
The Olomaʻo was historically confined entirely to the island of Lānaʻi, one of the smaller main Hawaiian Islands. Its distribution was restricted to the high-elevation, humid montane cloud forests primarily found on the central plateau and slopes of Lānaʻihale, the highest point on the island. It...
Critically Endangered
- The Olomaʻo was strictly endemic to a single Hawaiian island, Lānaʻi, making its population highly vulnerable to localized threats. - It is considered critically endangered and possibly extinct; the last confirmed sighting was in 1988, with unconfirmed reports up to 1993. - Its species name, *l...