Rarity Status
Currently this species is not classified as a rarity in this country OR information has not been updated.
Population
Estimated population is 500 (2010) and decreasing.
Status CR
Habitat destruction and degradation, especially by feral pigs, malaria and potentially climate change are the main threats.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Food
Mainly the larvae and pupae of wood- and fruit-boring beetles, moths and other invertebrates.
Voice
Song is a plaintive series of short whistles descending in pitch 'chwee-chwee-chwee-chwee-chwee'. Calls include a short warble, an upslurred whistle, and a loud 'chewp' uttered by dependent juveniles, all similar to calls of Akiapolaau (Hemignathus wilsoni) of Hawai`i.
Maui Parrotbill (Pseudonestor xanthophrys) [XC58971]
by Brooks Rownd from Waikamoi Reserve, Haleakala, Maui Island, Hawaii, United States (call)
Maui Parrotbill (Pseudonestor xanthophrys) [XC123887]
by id from TNC Waikamoi Preserve, Maui County, Hawaii, United States (call, song)
Nest
Cup-shaped and placed in the outer canopy forks of mature ohia (Metrosideros polymorpha).
Subspecies
No subspecies.
Long regarded as being allied with Ou (Psittirostra psittacea), but data from varied sources suggest closer relationship with Hemignathus.
Similar Species
Maui Oahu Nukupuu (Hemignathus lucidus), subspecies affinis, has yellow head without dark eye-line and bold superciliary, and much thinner bill.
References
See References.
BirdLife International Species Factsheet