ʻAkekeʻe
Loxops caeruleirostris
Critically EndangeredAves · Passeriformes · Fringillidae
About
The akekeʻe or Kauaʻi ʻākepa is a bird species in the family Fringillidae, where it is placed in the Hawaiian honeycreeper genus Loxops. It is endemic to the island of Kauaʻi where it is found in small numbers in higher elevations. Because of their similar size, shape, and unusual bill, the akekeʻe and the ʻākepa were for some time classified as a single species. This was eventually changed, because of differences in their color, nesting behavior, and calls. The akekeʻe is extremely threatened and is predicted to face imminent extinction if mosquito control efforts on Kauaʻi are not implemented.
Fun Fact
Because of their similar size, shape, and unusual bill, the akekeʻe and the ʻākepa (Loxops coccineus) were for some time classified as a single species.
Quick Facts
Habitat
To be updated
Diet
Feeds on the nectar of some trees.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Destruction
- Pollution
- Invasive Species
- Over-Collection
- Climate Change