Guide to Birding the Hawaiian Islands

Kaua`i

For forest birds, visit Koke`e State Park, where you can find `Elepaio, `Amakihi, `Anianiau, `Apapane, Kaua`i `Akepa and possible `I`iwi and Kaua`i Creeper. The nearby Alaka`i Swamp has many of the same birds, with many more `I`iwi, a better chance of seeing the Kaua`i Creeper, and the remote possibility of seeing the Puaiohi. Try the Pihea Trail.

On the way up to the park, Waimea Canyon features many White-tailed Tropicbirds, and watch for Pueo as well in the surrounding dryland areas.

Wailua River Valley on Kuamo`o Road (Route 580, about 6 miles north of Lihu`e) is a beautiful place to look for Koloa, `Alae `Ula (Common Moorhen) and the Japanese Bush-warbler. The two Laughing Thrushes and the Western Meadowlark may also be found there. Follow the road to Kuahua Arboretum and enjoy the birding along the way.

For seabirds, Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge is a must. Expect to see Tropicbirds, Frigatebirds, Boobies, Shearwaters and Albatross in season.

All four endemic waterbirds can be seen at Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge on the north shore up the road from Kilauea NWR.