Birding Hawaii
Hawaii—with its paradise-like climate, beaches, and palm trees—encompasses eight main islands (only seven of which are permanently inhabited) as well as many smaller islands. The archipelago was formed by underwater volcanic activity, and the islands remain volcanically active.
The islands offer diverse habitats, including high altitudes (the peak of Mauna Kea receives snow in winter), arid shorelines, wetlands, and tropical rainforests with lush waterfalls. The near-constant trade winds of the tropics keep temperatures nearly constant year round, and keep the leeward side of each island dry.
Hawaii’s bird checklist boasts 338 species, including 44 endemics. Ebird reports 274 bird species in Hawaii, many of which have been introduced to the islands in the past few centuries.
