A GUIDE TO KAUAI’S BIRDS

Bird watchers from across the planet flock to Kauai to bask in the beauty of the beautiful birds that call this paradise home.  Kauai, nicknamed the Garden Isle, is home to over 80 avian species, several of which you may find nowhere else.  

These beautiful creatures include Native Hawaiian birds as well as tropical species that were introduced to Kauai throughout the years.  So, whether traveling by boat, hiking the beautiful trails, exploring the rugged cliffs and beaches, or taking the Koloa Zipline, you are sure to be amazed and entertained by these colorful, gorgeous creatures.

Notable Bird Species in Kauai

Though there are 21 species of birds that are native to Kauai, there are six that are only found here.  Sighting these beauties is on every birdwatcher’s bucket list.  

1. Kauaʻi ʻElepaio– When hiking on higher ground, you may come across this little guy.  With a gray back and white-tipped wings, they look a little like a chickadee.  And don’t be surprised if the ʻElepaio is following you.  They are just curious and friendly. 
2. Puaiohi – Larger with a beautiful song, the Puaiohi are usually found near streams on higher ground.  
3. ‘Akikiki–Though the ʻAkikiki are dwindling in population, you still may come across one of these scavengers looking for food in groups.  
4. ʻAnianiau–Brightly colored (males bright yellow, females pale yellow). These little guys may be small but can be easily seen by most birders.  
5. ‘Akekeʻe or Kaua‘i ‘Ākepa – Honeycreepers like the ʻAnianiau; they are green and yellow, but the male has black mask-like markings on their faces.   
6. Kauaʻi ʻAmakihi – Yet another Hawaiian honeycreeper with yellow colors. The Kauaʻi ʻAmakihi looks similar to the two prior species but has a long, curved, pointy bill and unmistakable song.  

Birds You’re Most Likely to See

Hawaii’s state bird, the Nēnē, is also native to Kauai.  This Hawaiian Goose (Branta Sandvicensis) looks and sounds much like the Canadian goose but with a twist.  When they make the familiar honking sound, you can hear the ‘Nay-nay’ sound.  They are said to be the rarest goose on earth and have had their population revived through successful conservation efforts.  

When ziplining with Koloa Zipline, you may see a black bird with a white bill called the ‘Alae Ke‘oke‘o or Hawaiian Coots.  Though endangered as well, Koloa Zipliners are lucky that they live on and around the Waita Reservoir, which is located in the middle of the zipline course.

Of course, the most abundant birds on the island are chickens and junglefowl.  Since they have no natural predators, the population has multiplied many times since they were first introduced a thousand years ago.  

The largest bird on Kauai is the ʻIwa or Great Frigate Bird. They are black and white, and the males have a red gular pouch under their bill that they can inflate to attract the females.  

Tips for Bird Watching in Kauai

As most birdwatchers know, laying your eyes on a rare bird can be rare but exciting.  To increase your chances of spotting these highly-sought after species in Kauai, keep these tips in mind:

• Do some research.  If unsure of the species, their habitat, special markings, etc., upfront research will give you a better chance of finding what you are looking for.  
• Ask the locals.  Most often, local residents may know unusual places or times to look.  
• Don’t let the weather stop you.  A little rain may not hurt your chances of finding your birds.
• Consider a tour. Or fly among the trees with a Koloa Zipline to get a view from the top.  

 Koloa Zipline For a Bird’s Eye View

 If you want to experience Koloa’s beautiful birds and landscape, Koloa Zipline is perfect for that bird’s eye view.  Fun, educational, and entertaining, a zipline tour is sure to optimize your bird-watching Kauai experience.  Contact us for more information.