MAUI NUKUPUU Hemignathus lucidus affinis (Rothschild) 



Order: PASSERIFORMES Family: DREPANIDIDAE 



Distinguishing characteristics : Small bird with long down-curved bill; upper mandible 

 twice length of lower. Under parts and head bright yellow, back olive green. Females 

 and immatures are duller below with olive crown, yellow throat, and yellow stripe above 

 the eye . 



Present distribution : Known to occur from 5,500 to 6,500 feet northeast slopes of 

 Haleakala Crater, island of Maui, Hawaiian Islands. Two, possibly three seen in 

 Kipahulo Valley in August 1967 (Banko) . 



Former distribution : Historically reported in forests at about 4,000 feet elevation, Maui. 



Status : Very uncommon. 



Estimated numbers : Unknown . 



Breeding rate in the wild : Unknown . 



Reasons for decline : Alteration of natural environment by man. Probable susceptibility 

 to exotic avian diseases transmitted by introduced mosquitoes . 



Protective measures already taken : Protected by State law . Selective limitation of 

 introduced foreign species of birds. Limited field research program in progress. 

 Acquisition of large area of Kipahulu Valley, Maui, by the Nature Conservancy for 

 inclusion as wilderness area in Haleakala National Park. 



Measures proposed : Preservation in natural condition the native rain forest environment 

 in Kipahulu Valley and other areas and establishment of refuges or sanctuaries . Prevent 

 introduction of harmful insects, plants, and animals. Control of feral grazing animals. 

 Control of domestic stock. Initiate ecological and life history research of the species. 

 Publicize critical status and aesthetic and scientific values. Quarantine on all birds, 

 including cage birds brought into the State to prevent introduction of disease. Initiate 

 propagation program and develop techniques applicable to Hawaiian forest birds. 



Number in captivity : None . 



Breeding potential in captivity : Unknown . 



References: 



Amadon, D. 1950. The Hawaiian Honeycreepers . Bui. Am. Mus . Nat. Hist., 



Vol. 95, Art. 4. 

 Banko, W. E. 1968. Re-discovery of Maui Nukupuu, Hemignathus lucidus affinis , 

 and sighting of Maui Parrotbill, Pseudonestor xanthophrys , Kipahulu Valley, 

 Maui, Hawaii. Condor 70: 265-266 . 



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