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Patterns of tree use by birds pre- and post-koa moth outbreak, Hawaii Island, 2013-2014

Published by U.S. Geological Survey | Department of the Interior | Metadata Last Checked: January 27, 2026 | Last Modified: 2021-02-17T00:00:00Z
Observers at Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge recorded the use by birds of koa (Acacia koa) and ohia (Metrosideros polymorpha) trees in two sites that were recovering from ungulate disturbance and two reforestation sites where trees had been planted. Observations were made pre- and post-defoliation of koa trees by koa moths (Scotorythra paludicola) during 2013. Focal trees at each site were selected haphazardly and observed for 2 minutes to determine the total number individual birds that visited the tree. Birds were counted when they were already present or as they flew into a tree during the 2-minute period, regardless of whether they departed before the end of the observation period. Birds were identified to species when possible, but individuals of unidentified species were counted the same as species that were identified. We also categorized the level of flowering on ohia trees because many birds are attracted to the nectar.

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