Hawaii ʻAkepa
NameHawaii ʻAkepa
Common NameHawaii ʻAkepa
Scientific NameLoxops coccineus
FamilyFringillidae
Wingspan (cm)16.5
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)11
Plumage DetailsAdult males are entirely brilliant orange-red with darker, dusky wings and tail. Females are duller, typically yellowish-green to olive-green, sometimes with an orange wash on the head and breast. Juveniles resemble females but are generally duller.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a distinctive, rapid 'cheet' or 'chip' call. Their song is a series of clear, whistled notes, often described as a 'sweet' or 'liquid' melody.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to the island of Hawaiʻi (Big Island), primarily found in high-elevation native 'ōhi'a and koa forests.
Identifying FeaturesBright orange plumage (males), Small size, Slightly crossed bill (though subtle), Found exclusively in native Hawaiian forests
Description
The Hawaii ʻAkepa is a small, vibrant Hawaiian honeycreeper. Males are striking orange, while females are duller yellowish-green. They are known for their unique, slightly crossed bill used for prying open leaf buds.
