Image via Macaulay Library
Hawaii Elepaio
- Scientific name
- Chasiempis sandwichensis
- Family
- Monarchidae
- Conservation status
- Vulnerable
- Habitat
- Forest mixed
- Wing shape
- Rounded
- Tail shape
- Pointed
Where it came from
The Hawaii Elepaio, scientifically classified as Chasiempis sandwichensis, is an endemic monarch flycatcher restricted to the island of Hawaii. It has long held a significant place in Hawaiian cultural history, most famously regarded in traditional lore as the guardian spirit of canoe makers. According to legend, the bird would inspect acacia koa trees intended for construction, pecking at wood that was infested with insects and thus unsuitable for crafting, thereby guiding artisans toward sound materials.
Ornithologically, the species is recognized by its distinctively rounded wings and a characteristically pointed tail, features that assist its agile, darting flight patterns within native forests. The bird's design reflects a specialized adaptation to a sedentary island life, having evolved into three distinct subspecies across different ecological zones of the Big Island. While it remains a cultural symbol of craftsmanship, modern conservation efforts focus on protecting its habitat from avian malaria and invasive predators that threaten its population stability.
Generated by Pi, the collecto.rs collecting companion
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Hawaii Elepaio
Hawaii Elepaio is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Hawaii Elepaio on collecto.rs?
Hawaii Elepaio doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Hawaii Elepaio?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Hawaii Elepaio catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Hawaii Elepaio is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
