Apapane - Birding Deport (2024)

Birds NameApapane
Science NameHimatione sanguinea
DomainEukaryota
KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPasseriformes
FamilyFringillidae
GenusHimatione
SpeciesH.sanguinea

The ‘Apapane (Himatione sanguinea) is one of the most abundant and widely distributed species of Hawaiian honeycreepers, native to the Hawaiian Islands. Known for its vibrant crimson plumage and melodic song, the ‘Apapane plays a crucial role in the pollination of native flora, particularly the ‘ōhi‘a tree (Metrosideros polymorpha).

The ‘Apapane is a small honeycreeper, measuring approximately 13 centimeters (5.1 inches) in length. Adult ‘Apapane are strikingly crimson, with bright red feathers covering most of their body. Their undertail coverts and lower abdomen feathers are distinctively white, contrasting with their black primaries and retrices (tail feathers). Juveniles are more subdued, displaying yellow-brown and gray plumage with the same white undertail. Over the course of two years, juvenile ‘Apapane molt into their characteristic crimson plumage. Sexual dimorphism in the species is primarily seen in size, with males averaging 16 grams (0.56 ounces) and females slightly smaller at 14.4 grams (0.51 ounces).

CharacteristicMale ‘ApapaneFemale ‘Apapane
Average Length13 cm (5.1 in)13 cm (5.1 in)
Average Weight16 g (0.56 oz)14.4 g (0.51 oz)
Plumage ColorBright CrimsonBright Crimson
Underside ColorWhiteWhite
Primaries and RetricesBlackBlack

Taxonomy

The ‘Apapane belongs to the subfamily Carduelinae within the family Fringillidae, which includes finches and other small passerines. The species is closely related to other Hawaiian honeycreepers, a group that has undergone significant adaptive radiation to fill various ecological niches across the Hawaiian Islands. The scientific name Himatione sanguinea reflects the bird’s striking red color, with “sanguinea” derived from the Latin word for “blood.”

Taxonomic Classification

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPasseriformes
FamilyFringillidae
SubfamilyCarduelinae
GenusHimatione
SpeciesH. sanguinea

Distribution

The ‘Apapane is found on six of the Hawaiian Islands: Hawaiʻi, Maui, Lānaʻi, Kauaʻi, Molokaʻi, and Oʻahu. It is the most abundant honeycreeper in the region, with populations thriving in native mesic and wet forests. The bird is particularly common on the island of Hawaiʻi, where an estimated 86% of the population resides.

Range and Population

The ‘Apapane’s range covers a wide variety of elevations, though the highest densities are found above 1,200 meters (4,100 feet), where the prevalence of mosquitoes and the diseases they carry is lower. The species’ population is considered stable, with an estimated total population of over 1.5 million birds.

IslandEstimated PopulationYear of Estimate
Hawaiʻi1,080,000 ± 25,0001986
Maui228,480 ± 19,855 (East Maui)2017
Maui20,521 ± 1,687 (West Maui)2009
Kauaʻi98,5062012
Molokaʻi38,643 ± 2,3601979
Oʻahu24,000 ± 2,6001991
Lānaʻi540 ± 2131979
Total1,490,690 ± 51,715

Habitat

‘Apapane are primarily found in native mesic and wet forests dominated by ‘ōhi‘a and koa (Acacia koa) trees. These forests provide the bird with abundant food resources and nesting sites. The species is highly dependent on ‘ōhi‘a trees, whose flowers are their primary food source. While ‘Apapane can be detected at lower elevations on most islands, they are most commonly found at higher elevations, where the risk of avian diseases is reduced.

Behavior

‘Apapane are highly active and vocal birds. They are known for their complex and varied songs, which include a mix of squeaks, whistles, rasps, melodic trills, and clicking sounds. These birds sing from perches for 10-30 second intervals and even while in flight. Social by nature, ‘Apapane are often seen foraging in conspecific (same species) and mixed-species flocks.

The birds are particularly known for their “tail-up” posture, where they display their white undertail feathers prominently. This behavior is often observed while they are perched or singing.

Feeding

The ‘Apapane’s diet primarily consists of nectar from ‘ōhi‘a flowers, making them important pollinators for these native trees. The bird’s tubular, brush-tipped tongue and decurved bill are well adapted for nectar feeding. In addition to nectar, ‘Apapane also consume insects and spiders, which they glean from leaves and small twigs in the forest canopy. They do not forage on the ground.

A 1953 study of 63 ‘Apapane stomach contents revealed the following dietary components:

Dietary ComponentPercentage of Birds
Butterflies and Moths87%
Hoppers (Homoptera)75%
Lacewing Larvae (Neuroptera)60%
Spiders (Arachnida)43%

Breeding

The breeding season for ‘Apapane typically begins between October and November, with a peak between February and June. Nests are often built at the terminal branches of ‘ōhi‘a trees, though they have also been found in tree cavities, lava tubes, and in the tops of koa, kāwa‘u (Ilex anomala), and hapu‘u (Cibotium tree ferns).

Females lay 1-4 eggs and incubate them for about 13 days. Interestingly, during the incubation period, the male does not visit the nest but will feed the female when she is away from it. Both parents are involved in feeding the nestlings, which are dependent on their parents for less than four months.

Threats

While the ‘Apapane population is currently stable, the species still faces several threats. The most significant of these is avian malaria, spread by mosquitoes, which has severely impacted many other Hawaiian honeycreepers. The risk of disease is particularly high at lower elevations, where mosquito populations are more prevalent. Habitat loss due to deforestation and land development also poses a threat, though the widespread distribution of ‘Apapane across multiple islands provides some resilience.

ThreatImpact on Population
Avian MalariaModerate to High
Habitat LossModerate
Climate ChangeModerate
Predation by Introduced SpeciesLow

Migration

‘Apapane are not long-distance migratory birds, but they do undergo frequent temporal and seasonal migrations in search of flowering ‘ōhi‘a trees. These migrations are often short-range, with the birds moving between different elevations and forested areas as they follow the flowering phenology of their primary food sources.

Conservation Status

The ‘Apapane is currently classified as a species of “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This status reflects the species’ stable population and wide distribution across the Hawaiian Islands. However, ongoing conservation efforts are essential to monitor population trends and mitigate the risks posed by avian diseases and habitat loss.

Conclusion

The ‘Apapane is a vital part of Hawaii’s natural heritage, a colorful and active honeycreeper that plays a key role in the pollination of native plants. Its widespread distribution and stable population make it a symbol of resilience among Hawaiian birds. However, the ongoing threats of disease and habitat loss highlight the importance of continued conservation efforts to protect this iconic species and the ecosystems it inhabits.

Through sustained conservation initiatives and habitat protection, we can ensure that the ‘Apapane continues to thrive in the Hawaiian Islands, serving as a vibrant reminder of the islands’ unique biodiversity.

Rate this post

Apapane - Birding Deport (2024)

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Msgr. Refugio Daniel

Last Updated:

Views: 5871

Rating: 4.3 / 5 (74 voted)

Reviews: 81% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Msgr. Refugio Daniel

Birthday: 1999-09-15

Address: 8416 Beatty Center, Derekfort, VA 72092-0500

Phone: +6838967160603

Job: Mining Executive

Hobby: Woodworking, Knitting, Fishing, Coffee roasting, Kayaking, Horseback riding, Kite flying

Introduction: My name is Msgr. Refugio Daniel, I am a fine, precious, encouraging, calm, glamorous, vivacious, friendly person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.