This refuge was established to protect endangered and threatened waterbirds, including the koloa (Hawaiian duck), ‘alae ke‘oke‘o (Hawaiian coot), ‘alae ‘ula (Hawaiian moorhen), ae‘o (Hawaiian stilt) and nēnē (Hawaiian goose). In addition, these wetlands host a number of vagrant and migratory waterbirds. To ensure the continued protection of the birds that live in Hanalei NWR, ...
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Located within the Līhu‘e-Kōloa Forest Reserve, this 4 mile out-and-back hike provides scenic vistas as you walk among tree ferns and towering eucalyptus. This trail offers the opportunity to see the native ʻapapane, along with a number of introduced species, like the greater necklaced laughingthrush, western meadowlark, and white-rumped shama. Kuilau Trail ends at a ...
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Beginning at the awe-inspiring Puʻu O Kila Lookout, the Pihea Trail offers scenic forest views and some of the best opportunities for viewing Kauaʻi’s native forest birds. This trail is considered to be a difficult hike.
A moderate challenge, this 4.8 mile forested loop hike begins and ends in the Keaīwa Heiau State Recreation Area. The ʻAiea ridgeline offers some of Oʻahu’s best opportunities for spotting native forest birds such as the Oʻahu ʻamakihi, Oʻahu ʻelepaio, and ʻapapane as well as some exciting introduced species, including the endangered Mariana swiftlet and ...
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Named in memory of McKinley High School teacher and environmental activist Betty Bliss, this special viewing point provides a look into the Pearl Harbor National Wildlife Refuge- an area dedicated to the protection and management of endangered waterbirds and endangered plants. Accessible year-round by walking or biking along the Leeward Bikeway (also known as the ...
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The trail begins as a paved road, eventually turning into a dirt track and transitioning from guava to native koa-ʻuluhe forest. This hike offers opportunity to see or hear several native forest birds. A challenging trek, this ridge trail features 1,600-ft. elevation gain and may often be muddy and slippery.
A guided tour through the refuge is led by experienced birders who serve as volunteers with the Friends of Oʻahu Refuges group. During the two hour walking tour, participants learn about endangered water birds, migratory shorebirds, and waterfowl, as well as the history and conservation efforts of the Refuge.
Waimea Valley features botanical gardens, important cultural sites, a waterfall, and more. Managed by non-profit organization, Hiʻipaka LLC, Waimea Valley is accessible to the public with the purchase of admission. The valley is home to around 15 of the endangered ʻalae ʻula.
A hike along this coastal trail will bring you to Kaʻena Point Natural Area Reserve, one of the last coastal sand dune habitats on the island and an important nesting site for the mōlī (Laysan albatross) and ʻuaʻu kani (wedge-tailed shearwater). Along the route, you will find beaches and occasional tidepools. This trail also presents ...
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Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuge is nestled between Kīhei and Ma‘alaea towns and features a coastal salt marsh habitat. Start your trip at the Visitors Center to learn all about the area and its feathery inhabitants. Nearby, the Kanuimanu Ponds offer an up-close view of waterbirds. A must-see is the Coastal Boardwalk that offers a ...
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The Kanahā Ponds were designated a State Wildlife Sanctuary in 1951 and provides a safe habitat for many native and vagrant waterbirds. Located near the Kahului Airport and the main towns of Kahului and Wailuku, this site is an easy escape to view nature.
A side trip on the road to Hana is always an adventure! The Wai‘ānapanapa State Park is a perfect rest stop steeped in Hawaiian culture. The off-shore rocks and cliffs provide excellent sightings of shore and seabirds, viewable from ancient shoreline trails.
Kahakapao Recreation Area is a mountain biker’s paradise. An extensive network of hiking trails, biking trails, and biking skills amenities are favorites of the Upcountry community. A mix of native koa/‘ōhi‘a and exotic trees provides a unique birding experience.
The Polipoli Springs State Recreation Area hosts a diversity of outdoor activites including hiking, camping, and hunting. The large Recreation area encludes several hiking trails that take you through various native and exotic forest habitats. As such, a wide variety of birds can be seen in this area.