`ElepaioScientific name: Chasiempis sandwichensis
USFWS Status: Candidate for Listing as Endangered
Distribution: Kauai, Hawaii, Oahu
Sound file: --
Map: --
The `elepaio is an active bird, catching insects on the wing. It is found in forests on Kaua`i, O`ahu, and Hawai`i. It will often follow hikers through forests and can usually be attracted by imitating its call. The `elepaio is the friendly gaurdian spirit of canoe makers in Hawai`i. Although the taxonomy of this species has varied over the years, three subspecies are currently recognized:
- Kaua`i `Elepaio: Chasiempis sandwichensis sclateri
- O`ahu `Elepaio: Chasiempis sandwichensis ibidis
- Hawai`i `Elepaio: Chasiempis sandwichensis sandwichensis
Photo © 1992 by Jack Jeffrey
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This page last revised 16 April 2008