KAUAI RAINFOREST ANIMALS YOU MAY SEE WHILE ZIPLINING

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves adventure and nature, ziplining with Koloa Zipline offers the perfect combo. Set in the lush lands on Kauai’s south shore, this zipline tour lets you soar through a scenic landscape filled with native plants, dramatic mountain views, and plenty of wildlife. 

You can enjoy panoramic views of Kauai’s countryside and forests, making it a great spot to catch glimpses of the island’s wild residents. Let’s take a look at some of the animals you might spot while zipping through the treetops. 

Birds of Kauai: Colorful, Rare, and Full of Character 

Birdwatchers, get your binoculars ready! The area around Poipu is a haven for native and migratory birds alike. Here are some of Kauai’s notable bird species: 

• Koloa Maoli (Hawaiian Duck): This elusive native duck is endangered and often hard to find—except in protected areas like the reservoir. They resemble female mallards but are smaller and darker in color. 

• Alae keʻokeʻo (Hawaiian Coot): These black, medium-sized waterbirds have a distinctive white bill and forehead shield. They are also endangered and rely on places like the reservoir for safe breeding grounds. 

• ʻAlae ʻUla (Hawaiian Gallinule): With dark plumage and a red frontal shield, this shy wetland bird is a treat to see in the wild. 

• Aeʻo (Hawaiian Stilt): Known for their long pink legs and black-and-white plumage, these elegant birds are often spotted wading in the shallow waters of the reservoir. 

• Kalij Pheasant: Originally introduced from Asia, these colorful birds are now common in forested areas. Their shimmering feathers and bold personalities make them fun to watch. 

• Moa (Wild Chickens): No trip to Kauai is complete without spotting (or hearing) the famous wild chickens. These birds are everywhere, and there’s a fascinating story behind their presence. 

Where Did All These Chickens Come From? 

You’ve probably heard the crowing – Kauai’s wild chickens are as iconic as its beaches. But how did they get here? 

The answer lies in history and a bit of mystery. Polynesians first brought chickens to Hawaii as early as 300 AD. Later, hurricanes Iwa (1982) and Iniki (1992) destroyed countless chicken coops across the island. Freed from captivity, these chickens likely interbred with Red Junglefowl, their wild cousins. With no natural predators, the population exploded—so don’t be surprised when you see them strutting through parking lots or crowing from treetops! 

Land Animals: The Elusive Hawaiian Boar 

Another animal you might encounter, though less frequently seen is the Hawaiian Boar (Puaʻa). These wild pigs were also introduced by Polynesians and have since spread across the islands. Omnivorous and often active at night, they forage through the forest floor using their strong snouts. While they can often be destructive to native habitats, they remain essential to Hawaiian cultural traditions, including hunting. 

Boar sightings are rare during zipline tours, but keep your eyes peeled—you never know when one might be rooting below the canopy. 

Fish of the Waita Reservoir 

Don’t forget to look down! The Waita Reservoir is teeming with fish species, both native and introduced. Among them are: 

• Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass 

• Peacock Bass 

• Tilapia 

• Koi 

Fun fact: the koi in the reservoir are descendants of ornamental fish kept in Japanese gardens during the sugar plantation era. These bright-colored swimmers are a reminder of Kauai’s multicultural history and the reservoir’s agricultural past. 

A Scenic and Historic Landscape 

In addition to wildlife, the scenery from your zipline is nothing short of breathtaking. The Waita Reservoir lies just beyond Kauai’s famous Tree Tunnel and near the historic Old Koloa Sugar Mill, which operated from 1912 until its closure in 1996. Though no longer in use, the mill remains a symbolic landmark of Kauai’s rich plantation history. 

Ziplining in this area means gliding over the same landscapes seen in major Hollywood productions like Jurassic Park and Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw. 

Where Else You’ll See Kauai Wildlife 

The reservoir is nuzzled right by Kauai’s Tree Tunnel and Old Koloa Sugar Mill. The reservoir is an inland body of freshwater, one of the biggest in Hawaii. It appears as a huge Oasis with the background of the Black Mountain Range and Mt. Haupu in Koloa as seen in Jurassic Park.  

The Waita Reservoir was built in the 1900s in an area that was then the Koloa Swamp. It’s purpose was to supply water to the sugar cane fields that were in full swing at the beginning of the 20th century. 

It was Expanded in 1931 to include 525 acres and it holds 23 billion gallons of water. The reservoir is still irrigating water to farms all over the island, today. Agriculture is very much still alive on Kauai, with the help from the Waita Reservoir. 

The Koloa Sugar Mill stands as a testimony to Hawaii’s booming sugar industry. From 1912-1996 The Koloa Mill was the highest producing sugar mill in the state of Hawaii. 

Alongside the old Koloa Sugar Mill, you will see classic Hollywood movie locations like Jurassic Park and Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw. 

After the closure in 1996, the mill became a popular tourist attraction popping up in countless vacation photos and home movies. Closed to the general public, it is still a favored site for Hollywood movies and Kauai’s natural wildlife. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Wildlife On Kauai 

Q: Will I see animals while ziplining?
While we can’t guarantee specific sightings (wildlife does what it wants!), most guests do spot birds like wild chickens, Hawaiian Coots, and stilts. Keep your eyes open—you never know what might make an appearance! 

Q: Are the animals dangerous?
Not at all. The animals you’ll see during your tour are harmless and tend to keep their distance. Wild chickens and birds are very common. Hawaiian boars are elusive and typically avoid human interaction. 

Q: What’s the best time of day to see wildlife?
Early mornings and late afternoons are more active for birds and other animals. However, wildlife can be spotted throughout the day, especially in and around the reservoir. 

Q: Are the wild chickens everywhere?
Yes, they indeed are! These quirky, colorful birds are part of what makes Kauai so unique. You’ll see them in towns, forests, parking lots, and along your zipline tour. 

Q: Can kids go ziplining and see wildlife, too?
Absolutely! Koloa Zipline welcomes children over a certain age and weight limit (usually 7+ and 70 lbs minimum). Kids love the thrill and the chance to spot animals along the way. 

Why Zipline with Koloa Zipline? 

Koloa Zipline offers one of the most immersive ways to explore Kauai’s untouched wilderness. You’re in for a memorable adventure with exclusive access to private land, thrilling zipline courses, and expert guides to point out wildlife along the way. 

Whether you’re an animal lover, history buff, or thrill-seeker, a zipline tour is a unique way to connect with the natural and cultural beauty of Kauai. 

Ready to see the wildlife of Kauai from the sky?

Book your tour with Koloa Zipline today and experience the thrill of flight – surrounded by the island’s rich ecosystem and epic scenery.