From Opus

The species Greater Koa-Finch is extinct.

Rhodacanthis palmeri

[edit] Identification

The largest of the historically known Hawaiian honeycreepers at 23cm. Males had striking bright orange-red head and breast with a golden sheen, fading to orange-yellow undersides, and green-brown above with orange highlights. Females were dull yellow-green above, and paler below.

[edit] Distribution

Hawaii. The greater koa finch was last seen in 1896. Extensive ranching and logging in Kona combined with mosquito-borne avian diseases may have been the cause of their demise, though they generally lived above the mosquito zone.

[edit] Taxonomy

Hopue might or might not be the Hawaiian name.

[edit] Habitat

It was found in upper elevation koa forests of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea.

[edit] Behaviour

Its diet consisted primarily of koa seed pods, supplemented with caterpillars and possible 'a'ali'i seeds.

[edit] External Links