7 Rare Endemic Species in Maui You Didn’t Know Existed

Endemic species are animals that can only be found in specific places on Earth. They evolve in isolation and become perfectly suited to their environment.

Because of this, they are more prone to extinction. Things like habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change can threaten their survival.

Maui, with its microclimates from rainforests to volcanic landscapes, is home to several rare species. Here are some of them!

One of the most endangered seal species in the world, seeing Hawaiian Monk Seals are a rare treat. These seals are locally known as ‘Ilio holo I ka uaua and are often seen lounging on the beach and sunbathing.

With only an estimated 1,100 left, they are a reminder of the importance of conservation. Remember to keep a safe distance and observe responsibly.

If you’re lucky enough to see a Hawaiian Monk Seal remember to keep a respectful distance.

They are wild animals and will bite if they feel threatened. You can help protect these critically endangered mammals by staying at least 150 feet away when you see them and keeping dogs on leash.

Never feed or touch a monk seal. If a seal sees you and changes its behavior, (if it goes into the water, looks at you, or barks) it’s a sign you’re too close. Remember these are federally protected animals and deserve our respect.

The state bird of Hawaii the Nēnē has a special place in ancient Hawaiian culture and history. It’s the rarest goose in the world and can be identified by the black markings on its neck.

They almost disappeared due to habitat loss and introduced predators. Through captive breeding programs and conservation efforts, their numbers are slowly increasing.

They are mostly seen grazing on grassy slopes and golf courses.

However, today, they are still vulnerable. But thanks to conservation efforts you can still find them on Maui and other Hawaiian islands.

Imagine a bird with a scarlet body and a beak longer than its head. That’s the ʻIʻiwi. With its bright scarlet plumage and curved beak perfect for sipping nectar from native flowers it’s impossible to miss.

Their scarlet feathers and long curved beak are mesmerizing. Needless to say, listening to it sing makes your hiking or climbing trip even more unique!

Although they face habitat loss and invasive species challenges, conservation efforts give hope for the ‘I’Iwi’s future.

Unfortunately, habitat loss and avian malaria spread through mosquitos threaten their existence. Seeing this bird species flitting through the branches is a privilege.

Deep in Maui’s rainforests lives a bird with a special talent – the Maui Parrotbill. Unlike other birds that use only their beaks to eat, the Maui Parrotbill uses its feet as extra tools to hold its food while it eats.

They are endangered but with habitat restoration efforts, we’re starting to see some progress. Seeing a Maui parrotbill in the wild is proof of it, and we recommend quickly grabbing your camera because they easily get scared!

To increase your chances of seeing this endemic species, we recommend going for a trip to Hanawi Natural Area Reserve, on the northeastern part of Maui.

The ʻAkohekohe, also known as the Crested Honeycreeper, is one of Maui’s most rare and beautiful birds.

This bird stands out with its black and white stripes, orange crown, and tufts. It lives in the high-elevation rainforests of East Maui, around the Road to Hana and Haleakalā. Needless to say, if you’re planning to take the Haleakala sunset tour in Maui, keep your eyes open for the Crested Honeycreeper!

The ʻAkohekohe loves the lush forests with ʻohiʻa and koa trees, feeding on nectar from native flowers. Unfortunately, habitat loss and avian malaria have taken a toll on the ʻAkohekohe and it’s an endangered species.

Seeing an ʻAkohekohe is a rare treat, and we can’t promise you’ll be able to spot one during your time in Maui.

The Hawaiian Hoary Bat, or ʻŌpeʻapeʻa, is Hawaii’s only native land mammal. This little bat with frosty-tipped fur looks like it’s been dipped in snow, and it’s nice to spot one.

You can find the Hawaiian Hoary Bat in many areas of Maui, from coastlines to high-elevation forests. Like the other types of bats, they are most active at dusk and dawn, hunting for moths and beetles.

The Hawaiian Hoary Bat is a vital part of the ecosystem, controlling insect populations. But it’s an endangered species due to habitat loss, pesticides, and other environmental pressures.

No exploration of endemic species would be complete without talking about the Silversword Plant species.

Found only on the slopes of Haleakalā volcano on Maui, the Silversword has silver leaves that thrive in the harsh dry conditions of the volcanic crater.

Found nowhere else in the world, the plant takes 15-50 years to bloom and then dies.