Kaua‘i ‘Elepaio (Chasiempis sclateri)

The most easily seen native forest bird in Kaua‘i’s forest today. This friendly, cute bird often curiously follows hikers. Young birds, in particular, can get very close to you within just a few feet away! There are three species of ‘Elepaio, each occurring on Kaua‘i, O‘ahu and Hawai‘i Island. The Kaua‘i species is the drabbest of all, with grayish-brown above and white below. Young birds are rusty brown. Whenever I stay in a cabin at Kōkeʻe Lodge for a birdwatching trip, it’s enticing to hear songs and calls of ‘Elepaio in the forest near the cabin. When lucky, I can even see one in trees right back of the cabin.