Top 15 Types Of Birds In Oahu (With Pictures)

Nene Geese, Red-crested Cardinals, and vibrant Java Sparrows are just a glimpse; discover Oahu's top 15 birds that color and enliven its skies.

oahu bird species guide

Oahu's bird population showcases a remarkable mix of native and introduced species. Highlights include the Nene Goose, Hawaii's state bird, and the Red-crested Cardinal from South America. The island also supports various Hawaiian Honeycreepers like the Apapane and IIwi, critical pollinators within their ecosystem. Migratory birds such as the Pacific Golden-Plover travel seasonally from Alaska. Among the introduced species, the Java Sparrow and Saffron Finch add vibrant colors and sounds to the local avifauna. Observers can also spot the Black-necked Stilt, adept at hunting invertebrates. Each bird presents unique features and behaviors, inviting further exploration into their fascinating world.

Hawaiian Goose (Nene)

endangered goose species hawaii

The Hawaiian Goose, known locally as the Nene, is a unique species native to the Hawaiian Islands and distinguished as the state bird of Hawaii.

This endemic species, descended from Canadian Geese, features distinct black faces and striped necks.

Classified as endangered since 1967, the Nene Goose is a protected species, with ongoing conservation efforts to safeguard its population.

Red-crested Cardinal

vibrant bird with crest

Vibrant and melodious, the Red-crested Cardinal brings a splash of color and song to Oahu's landscape. Originally from South America, this striking bird has adapted well to the Hawaiian environment.

It's easily identifiable by its vivid red head and crest, contrasting with a white belly and dark back. Bird watchers in Oahu's parks and gardens enjoy its beautiful appearance and delightful songs.

Hawaiian Honeycreepers

vibrant birds of hawaii

Hawaiian Honeycreepers represent a unique and diverse group of birds endemic to Hawaii, showcasing a remarkable evolutionary story. These endemic species, including the colorful Apapane and iiwi, have evolved distinct beak shapes and plumage.

Despite facing challenges like habitat loss and invasive species, conservation efforts focus on protecting survivors like the Nihoa Finch and Maui Parrotbill, essential to Hawaii's forest ecosystems.

Pacific Golden-Plover

shorebird with distinctive plumage

While the Hawaiian Honeycreepers are notable for their evolutionary adaptation to diverse niches, another fascinating bird species seen in Oahu is the Pacific Golden-Plover, celebrated for its impressive migratory patterns.

This migratory bird showcases striking black and gold plumage. Renowned for its long-distance flights from Alaska, it forages in Oahu's grassy areas and shorelines, feeding on insects and small invertebrates during the winter months.

Black-crowned Night-Heron

bird with black crown

Often sighted in Oahu's diverse wetlands, the Black-crowned Night-Heron stands out due to its striking gray plumage and distinctive red eyes. This medium-sized heron species is a native Hawaiian bird, adept at nocturnal hunting.

They primarily feed on fish, frogs, and small aquatic creatures, utilizing their unique adaptation to low-light conditions. Their presence enriches the local biodiversity, making them an essential part of the ecosystem.

White-rumped Shama

beautiful bird with song

Moving from the nocturnal Black-crowned Night-Heron, the White-rumped Shama offers a melodious contrast with its varied and tuneful song. Native to Southeast Asia and adapted to Oahu, this species enchants with a striking appearance—black head, white belly, and a distinctive white rump.

Thriving in forested areas, they actively forage for insects and fruits, showcasing their agility among the branches.

Apapane

hawaiian bird with song

The Apapane, a native bird of Hawaii, captivates observers with its vivid red plumage and plays an essential role in the ecosystem as a pollinator.

Found in the tropical forests of Oahu, this bird of Oahu primarily feeds on nectar, making a substantial contribution to the health of its habitat.

Efforts to preserve their environment protect this symbol of Hawaiian avian diversity from invasive species and habitat loss.

Java Sparrow

beautiful java sparrow bird

Java Sparrows, recognized by their distinctive grayish-black heads and melodious chirps, have become a treasured addition to Oahu's avian population. This species found throughout the island flaunts a striking black and white coloration, with white cheek patches and a pink bill.

These social, seed-eating birds contribute vibrant life and song to both urban and suburban settings, enhancing the local biodiversity.

Common Waxbill

small african seed eating bird

Introduced to Hawaii as a popular cage bird, the Common Waxbill is a small passerine noted for its colorful plumage and melodious song. As an introduced species among the birds of Oahu, it thrives in grasslands and agricultural areas, feeding on seeds and insects.

Their red bills and distinct black and white facial markings make them a notable sight on the island.

Yellow-fronted Canary

bright yellow bird species

Similar to the Common Waxbill, the Yellow-fronted Canary is another vibrant songbird that has found a home in Hawaii's diverse avian community. This introduced species features a striking yellow plumage and a grayish-green back.

Commonly seen in grassy and open fields, these small birds primarily feed on seeds and small insects, delighting bird enthusiasts with their cheerful songs and bright colors.

Red-vented Bulbul

colorful bird with crest

The Red-vented Bulbul, recognized by the striking red patch beneath its tail, originated in Asia and was introduced to Hawaii in the 1960s.

This species living in Oahu is known for its melodious songs and diverse diet, including fruits and insects.

Despite its beauty, it is an invasive species, posing threats to rare bird populations and local ecosystems.

Saffron Finch

yellow bird with black

While the Red-vented Bulbul is an invasive species, the Saffron Finch, with its bright yellow plumage, is another common bird species in Hawaii.

This small, melodious finch enhances avian diversity, foraging actively in open areas for seeds, small invertebrates, and fruits.

Their cheerful demeanor and vibrant colors, marked distinctly on their heads, make them a delightful presence in gardens and fields.

Zebra Dove

striped bird with cooing

Originally from Southeast Asia, the Zebra Dove has become a familiar sight in Hawaii, easily recognized by its striking black and white striped neck and sides.

This small bird thrives in open habitats like parks and gardens, feeding primarily on seeds and insects.

Known for their gentle cooing, Zebra Doves are sociable creatures, often spotted in pairs or small groups across urban areas.

Northern Cardinal

vibrant red bird species

Shifting focus to another vibrant inhabitant of Oahu, the Northern Cardinal dazzles with its striking red plumage, a common sight in the island's gardens and woodlands. Males exhibit a bright red color that captivates onlookers, contrasting with the females' more subdued shades.

Recognizable by its crest and melodious songs, this bird remains a year-round, territorial resident, enriching the avian diversity of Hawaii.

What is the difference between the types of birds found in Oahu and Honolulu?

When comparing the types of birds in Oahu and Honolulu, it’s important to note the unique species that can be found in each location. Honolulu is known for its diverse population of birds, including the rare and endangered Hawaiian honeycreepers. Types of birds in Honolulu with pictures showcase the beauty of the local avian wildlife.

Black-necked Stilt

elegant black and white

Among the unique avian residents of Oahu, the Black-necked Stilt stands out with its distinctive long pink legs and striking black-and-white body pattern. Commonly found in wetlands near the Pacific Ocean, these birds use their thin bills to skillfully forage for invertebrates.

Known for their high-pitched calls, Black-necked Stilts are an elegant and notable part of Oahu's avian community.