‘I‘iwi at Hakalau Forest

The ‘i‘iwi, known as one of the more beautiful members of the Hawaiian Honeycreeper family, is endemic to Hawai’i. Both males and females of the species are a vibrant red with downward curving scarlet-orange beaks. The song of the ‘i‘iwi is also a part of cultural significance to the Hawaiian people. Legend has it that the demi-god Maui used the ‘i‘iwi to impress other gods that came to visit him. With their sweet songs and their vibrant coloring, these birds were the perfect display of beauty and power.