Palila
NamePalila
Common NamePalila
Scientific NameLoxioides bailleui
FamilyFringillidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)39
Plumage DetailsAdults feature a bright golden-yellow head and breast, contrasting with a gray back, wings, and tail. The belly is whitish, and there is a dark lore patch between the eye and the stout, dark bill. The rump and undertail coverts also show yellow.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a series of clear, whistled notes, often ending in a trill. Calls include a sharp 'chip' or 'cheet'.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to the dry māmane-naio forests on the upper slopes of Mauna Kea, Hawaiʻi Island, USA.
Identifying FeaturesBright yellow head and breast, Gray back and wings, Stout, dark, finch-like bill, Dark lore patch, Found only on Mauna Kea
Description
The Palila is a critically endangered Hawaiian honeycreeper known for its vibrant yellow head and breast. It is highly specialized, feeding almost exclusively on the seeds of the māmane tree, which it extracts with its strong bill. This bird is endemic to the dry forests of Mauna Kea.
