Habitat
Dense, wet forests dominated by `ohi`a trees, but also a variety of other forest, scrub and savanna habitats dominated either by native or introduced plants. From 900 - 2,500 m.
Rarity Status
Currently this species is not classified as a rarity in this country OR information has not been updated.
Population
Estimated population is 10,000 - 19,999 (2010) and decreasing.
Status EN
Habitat destruction and degradation due to feral ungulates, especially pigs, and disease-carrying mosquitoes following the spread of feral pigs into upland areas, are the main threats.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Voice
Song is a lively 'whurdy-wheesee-whurdy-chick' or a longer warble resembling song of introduced House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus). Call is a sharp 'cheeck' or 'chirk'.
Maui Alauahio (Paroreomyza montana) [XC385058]
by Frank Lambert from Hosmer Grove, Haleakala N. P., Maui, Hawaiian Is., USA, United States (call)
Maui Alauahio (Paroreomyza montana) [XC58975]
by Frank Lambert from Waikamoi Reserve, Haleakala, Maui Island, Hawaii, United States (call)
Subspecies
Placement of genus in present family questioned, but DNA studies indicate that it is a very early branch of the family. This species was in the past sometimes placed in genus Loxops. Has been considered conspecific with Oahu Alauahio (Paroreomyza maculata), and both were until recently combined in a single species with Kakawahie (Paroreomyza flammea) (now extinct), Akikiki (Oreomystis bairdi) and Hawaii Creeper (Manucerthia mana). Somewhat duller-backed birds on Maui described as subspecies newtoni, distinct from those on Lanai (where now extinct), but differences only slight and probably represent fragments of a former cline.
Similar Species
Hawai`i Hawaii Amakihi (Chlorodrepanis virens) not as yellow (male) and has curved bill, more black in lores. Introduced Japanese White-eye (Zosterops japonicus) smaller, greenish above and adults have prominent white eye-ring. Japanese Bush-Warbler (Horornis diphone) grey-brown overall with pale underparts and never have yellow on face.
References
See References.
BirdLife International Species Factsheet