Akekee (Loxops caeruleirostris)

Mohamed bin Zayed Species project number 192522599

Tracking for Translocation; Securing the Future for Akekee in Hawaii

This project prepares the ground for translocation of Akekee to higher elevation, disease-free forest in Maui, as a safeguard against extinction and to restore ecosystem function previously provided by the extinct Maui Akepa. To succeed, we need locational and movement data on Akekee. The terrain of the Alakai makes this challenging. Our solution is to expand a pilot project that established a network of automated detection stations (ADS) to track bird movements without requiring observers. Our objectives are to: 1. Build knowledge on Akekee habitat use and preferred microclimate 2. Obtain new information on Akekee diet for translocation project site selection 3. Improve effectiveness of predator control work by identifying the range of birds so that predator traps can be installed appropriately 4. Locate nests to band chicks, obtain demographic information, understand breeding biology & collect fecal samples. 5. Assist with mitigation work for the spread of Rapid Ohia Death (ROD – a fungal disease) by understanding the importance of ohia to Akekee, and alternative trees that could be planted 6. Raise awareness of Akekee with decision makers / general public

Project documents

• Application of natural history data on akekee collected on Kauai to modeling to determine habitat suitability for birds translocated to Maui
• Presentation of Expert Elicitation results and recommendations for management of critically endangered Hawaiian Honeycreepers, including Akekee
• Habitat suitability modeling for akekee on Kauai. Maps were used to indicate study areas for this grant.




Project 192522599 location - United States, North America