This small, generalist Hawaiian honeycreeper feeds on insects, nectar, and fruit. The Kauaʻi ʻamakihi is similar in appearance, but duller in color, larger, and has a longer and more decurved bill than the Hawaiʻi or Oʻahu ʻamakihi. Males appear yellow-green to olive with black lores and females appear similar, but less vibrant.