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Hawaiian Rainforest Birdwatch
Tour ID: BHFT-34
Duration: 11 hours
Location: Waikoloa, Big Island
Leaves from: Hawaii Forest & Trail Headquarters, Waikoloa Kings' Shops, and the Junction of Highways 190 and 200
The Rainforest and Dryforest Birding Adventure tour is what we like to call the best of both worlds. You are going to see the absolute best on both the dry forest and the rainforest here on the Big Island. On the west side of Mauna Kea in Puu Laau rests a sub-alpine dry land forest. Here you'll find the home of the endangered palila and the bryani, sub-species of elepaio. They are quite fascinating. Next we'll take you on the Puu Oo trail. Along this trail you'll be privileged to spot such endangered birds as the akiapolaau, omao, iwwi, apapane, and other endemics.
As we drive along the coastline and climb up the Mamalahoa highway remember to keep an eye out for the exotic open country birds. Once we connect to Saddle road from the highway, it'll be time for card birding. At this point our goal is to spot game birds and Pueto, the short eared owl. If weather permits, we'll stop after that and have breakfast at Mauna Kea State Park.
As mentioned before, we'll hike the Puu Oo trail. This is where you'll see the beautiful tropical rain forest. Located at the 6,000 foot level of Saddle road of Mauna Loa's northeastern flank, the gorgeous birds are a spectacle. Often covered by misty clouds, this is the windward side of the island. You'll enjoy being serenaded by the native forest birds in this remarkable location.
The other location is going to be more of the dry forest. Once we reach our checkpoint just off Saddle road, we will go into the Kaohe Game Management Area. From there will take a van to nearly 7,000 feet on the western side of Mauna Koa. We'll reach the Mauna Kea Forest Preserve shortly after that and here is where out bird watching tour begins! The views here are spectacular and the experience of the mamane-najo forests is unlike any other. There is a pleasant hike from here that allows you to be comfortable while searching for the endangered palia. This bird feeds almost entirely on green pods of mamane trees which will be surrounding us in this outstanding location. This is not the only endemic in this region so keep your eyes alert. Also to be found here are the Hawaiian amakihi and the Hawaiian elepaio which is easily spotted by its unique white feathered head. Come along with us on the Rainforest Dryforest Birding Adventure. It's an unforgettable experience for all!
Schedule:
Morning trips departing weekdays only from Hawaii Forest & Trail Headquarters, Waikoloa Kings' Shops, and the Junction of Highways 190 and 200. 11 hours round trip.
Rated:
Easy to Moderate; ages 8 and over.
Included in the Tour:
Continental breakfast including fresh local fruit
baked goods
100% Kona coffee
tea and hot chocolate.
Deli-style lunch, with assorted soft drinks, juices and bottled water.
Gear Provided:
Walking sticks, binoculars, day packs, warm wear and rain ponchos.
Adult/Child:
8 Yrs & Older.
Group Size:
Tour limited to a maximum of 10 guests.
Restrictions:
Guests should be able to hike on uneven or rocky terrain. We sometimes encounter cool, wet or muddy conditions. Other tour restrictions may apply.
What to Bring & Wear:
Sturdy closed-toed shoes or boots, long pants, and a light rain jacket.
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