OAHU CREEPER (ALAUWAHIO) Loxops maculata maculata (Cabanis) 



Order: PASSERIFORMES Family: DREPANIDIDAE 



Distinguishing characteristics : Small bird with straight, slender, sharp-pointed bill . 

 Male yellow below and yellow washed with olive green above, duskier on wings and 

 tail. Female somewhat duller. Adults retain white wing-bars which are only present 

 in Juvenal plumage of other subspecies . 



Present distribution : Confined to higher elevations of native forests of the island of 

 Oahu, Hawaii. 



Former distribution; Same as present but more widespread. 



Status : Very small and declining numbers . 



Estimated numbers : No estimate but very low. 



Breeding rate in the wild : Unknown . 



Reasons for decline : Introduction of foreign birds, avian diseases, and insect 

 vectors; alteration of native forests by man and introduced ungulates. 



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

 State and Federal Governments of introduction of foreign species of birds. Limited 

 field investigations in progress . 



Measures proposed : More complete control of introduction of foreign species of birds 

 and mammals and reduction of those already present in range of this species . Restoration 

 and protection of natural forest habitat, including establishment of needed refuges. 

 Conduct ecological and life history research to determine ecological requirements and 

 limiting factors for this 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/or develop techniques which 

 may be applied to Hawaiian forest birds . 



Number in captivity : None . 



Breeding potential in captivity : Unknown . 



References : 



Amadon, D. 1950. The Hawaiian honeycreepers . Bull. Amer. Mus . Nat. Hist. 



95: 155-262. 

 Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife, Administrative Reports. 

 Hawaii Division of Fish and Game, Administrative Reports. 

 Munro, G. C. 1960. Birds of Hawaii . 



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