160 Types of Birds in Hawaii

The most famous native birds are the Hawaiian honeycreepers, such as the bright red I'iwi and the yellow 'Amakihi. These birds evolved into many different forms to fill specific niches on the islands. Most native forest birds are now found only in high-elevation areas where they are protected from avian malaria and habitat loss.

Hawaii is a critical nesting ground for many seabirds, including the Laysan Albatross and the Red-footed Booby. You can often see these large birds soaring over the Kauai coast or nesting on offshore islands. The Great Frigatebird, known for its massive wingspan and red throat pouch, is another common sight near the harbors.

The Nene, or Hawaiian Goose, is the state bird and is the most well-known native bird that spends much of its time on the ground. While it can fly, it is well-adapted to walking on lava flows. You can find Nene in protected areas on Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island, often near the slopes of volcanoes.

Many birds seen at lower elevations are introduced species, such as the Common Myna, the Red-crested Cardinal, and the Zebra Dove. These birds were brought to the islands by humans and have become very common in urban and suburban areas. While not native, they add to the colorful variety of birds found across the islands.

The waters around Maui are excellent for seeing pelagic birds like shearwaters and petrels. These birds spend most of their lives at sea and only come to land to breed. Taking a boat trip through the Maui channels is a great way to spot these elusive ocean-going species in their natural environment.

There are over 100 bird species that can be found in Hawaii, including residents, migrants, and introduced types. However, many of the unique native species are endangered and require careful conservation. Visiting protected areas and using local guides is the best way to see the full diversity of Hawaii's avian life.