Hawaiian Birds

Hawaii Birdlife and Island Habitats

Hawaii's birdlife includes native forest birds, seabirds, wetland species, migratory shorebirds and introduced birds now common in parks and neighborhoods. Some birds live only in the Hawaiian Islands. Others arrive seasonally from faraway breeding grounds, while many familiar backyard birds came from other parts of the world.

This guide helps you browse Hawaiian birds by name, habitat, markings, range and cultural meaning. You'll find birds that nest on remote offshore islands, birds that forage in wetlands and shorelines, and birds that now thrive in gardens, towns and beach parks. For broader wildlife context, explore the main Hawaii fauna guide.

Native and Endemic Birds

Native and endemic birds are especially important in Hawaii because many evolved in isolation. The nene, or Hawaiian goose, is Hawaii's state bird and one of the Islands' most famous conservation success stories. The Hawaiian stilt, Hawaiian moorhen and other wetland birds also depend on protected lowland habitats.

These birds help tell the story of Hawaii's unique ecosystems. However, many native species face threats from habitat loss, predators, disease and human disturbance. For that reason, responsible birdwatching matters.

Seabirds and Shorebirds

Hawaii's ocean and coastline support many remarkable birds. Laysan albatrosses, great frigatebirds, masked boobies and red-billed tropicbirds spend much of their lives connected to the sea. Some nest in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, while others can be seen from coastal cliffs or offshore islets.

Migratory shorebirds also visit the Islands. The Pacific golden plover and ruddy turnstone travel long distances between northern breeding grounds and Hawaii's beaches, fields, mudflats and shorelines. Their seasonal arrivals add movement and variety to Hawaii's birdlife.

Wetland Birds in Hawaii

Wetlands support some of Hawaii's most important birds. Marshes, ponds, taro patches, mudflats and reservoirs provide feeding and nesting areas for species such as the Hawaiian stilt, Hawaiian moorhen, cattle egret and black-crowned night heron.

Because many wetland habitats are limited or fragmented, these areas deserve care and protection. Birdwatchers should stay on marked paths, avoid flushing birds and keep a respectful distance from nesting areas.

Introduced Birds and Everyday Sightings

Many birds commonly seen in Hawaii today are introduced species. Zebra doves, northern cardinals, red-crested cardinals, common mynas, house finches and nutmeg mannikins often appear in neighborhoods, parks, gardens and open grassy areas.

These birds are easy to notice because they live close to people. Some are colorful and vocal, while others gather in flocks or forage on the ground. Although they are not native, they have become familiar parts of Hawaii's everyday scenery.

Where to Watch Birds in Hawaii

Good birdwatching places include wetlands, forest reserves, botanical gardens, beach parks, coastal cliffs and wildlife refuges. Kilauea Lighthouse on Kauai, Kaena Point on Oahu, Haleakala National Park on Maui and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island are well-known places to see notable species.

Bird activity changes by habitat, island and season. Therefore, a quiet walk near a pond, forest trail or shoreline can reveal very different birds depending on where and when you visit. Visitors interested in the natural settings birds depend on can also browse Hawaii flora, Hawaii trees and Hawaii ocean life.

Using This Hawaii Bird Guide

The directory below includes native birds, migratory birds, seabirds, wetland birds and introduced species found in Hawaii. Each profile explains appearance, habitat, range, behavior and Hawaiian names when available.

Use the cards to compare markings, learn where each bird may be seen and better understand how birds fit into Hawaii's natural and cultural landscape. You can also browse related nature topics such as Hawaii flowers, Hawaii climate and Hawaii geography.