Wildlife in Maui: Top 10 Animal Species in 2024

Let’s start right with the main section, the best Maui wildlife. Here below, we discuss the top animal species in Maui, from marine life to land species and birds.

Spoiler alert: You’re really in for a treat for wildlife photography in Maui, so make sure to follow these photography tips before going!

Maui’s ocean is a must-see for anyone who wants to connect with marine animals. From playful dolphins to majestic whales, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive in.

Humpback Whales

Every winter, the waters around Maui come alive as thousands of humpback whales migrate from Alaska to breed and give birth. These gentle giants make the month-long journey to Maui’s warm and safe haven.

For the ultimate Maui experience, take a whale-watching tour – These tours offer a different perspective, so you can see these magnificent creatures from a respectful distance.

From breaching the surface to slapping their huge tails, humpback whales are one of the most unique animal species in Hawaii, and you simply can’t miss them.

Green Sea Turtle

In Hawaiian, green sea turtles are called “honu”. They’re a symbol of longevity and wisdom and are often considered ancestral guardians. Unfortunately, they were decimated and they’re currently on the list of endangered animal species.

Thanks to the Endangered Species Act protections of 1978, green sea turtles have made a remarkable comeback. These gentle turtles often surface or munch on algae.

If you spot some, please respect their space and observe from a distance so you don’t disturb them. That way, future generations can see them too.

Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins

Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins are known for their tricks, often seen jumping and spinning out of the water. They are found in the warm, shallow waters around Maui, especially in La Perouse Bay and along the west coast.

They are social, living in pods of dozens, which means you’ll spot many of them.

Early morning is the best time to see them, as they come in closer to shore to rest and socialize after a night of hunting in the deeper waters.

Needless to say, be respectful and keep a distance, as they are protected by federal law. Spinner dolphins are an important part of the marine ecosystem and Hawaiian culture, they represent playfulness and joy.

Hawaiian Monk Seals

One of the world’s most endangered marine mammals, the Hawaiian Monk Seal is a rare sight – It’s one of Maui’s endemic species you’d be lucky to spot. With a population of around 1,100, this rare seal calls Hawaii’s waters home and frequents the rocky coastlines.

If you’re so lucky to see one, keep your distance and enjoy the privilege of seeing this special animal in its natural environment.

Also, in case you see one that looks sick, injured, or being harassed by someone, report it to this Help Center. Last but not least, if you take a day trip from Maui to Oahu, you might even spot some monk seals during your time in Honolulu or around!

While the ocean is the main attraction, Maui is also home to many interesting and unique animals that live in its varied landscape.

While you’re here, keep an eye out for these animals that make the unique wildlife on the island.

Jackson Chameleons

Jackson Chameleons with their three horns are an interesting reptile species found on Maui. Originally from East Africa, they were introduced to Hawaii in the 1970s and have since adapted to the island.

They are found in forested areas, mostly in the upcountry regions like Makawao and Kula. They are unique for their ability to change color, which they use for camouflage and communication.

Their long, sticky tongues can catch prey with lightning speed and precision. Jackson Chameleons are insectivores, feeding on insects and other small invertebrates. Not native to Hawaii, but an interesting addition to Maui’s wildlife.

Seeing Jackson Chameleons in their natural habitat is one of the advantages to visit Maui, so don’t forget your camera.

Hawaiian Hoary Bat

The Hawaiian Hoary Bat, also known as ‘ōpe‘ape‘a, is Hawaii’s only native land mammal. This shy and solitary bat is found in wooded areas and forests around Maui, near water sources where there are plenty of insects.

They are named for their frosty, white-tipped fur which gives them a hoary appearance. They are nocturnal and come out at dusk to feed on moths, beetles, and other flying insects, so you likely won’t see them during the day.

The Hawaiian Hoary Bat is part of the ecosystem but is listed as an endangered species due to habitat loss and other environmental factors.

Note that seeing a Hawaiian Hoary Bat is rare, but it’s doable if you know where to look!

Mongoose

The mongoose story on the islands is a reminder that good intentions don’t always translate to success when dealing with delicate ecosystems. Brought in to control the rat population in the sugarcane fields, it didn’t quite work out as planned for Maui.

Since rats are nocturnal and the mongoose is diurnal (daytime), this was largely ineffective. Sadly, the mongooses shifted their attention to other easier prey – often the native birds and the local flora and fauna.

Although mongooses are cool to see from a distance, don’t get too close as they’ll quickly hide behind a bush!

This guide about Maui wildlife isn’t complete without a look at the birds in the sky. Their songs are music to the ears. Here are some of the amazing birds you’ll see on your trip to Maui.

State Bird: Nene Goose

Endemic to Hawaii and the state bird, the Nene goose is a survivor. It was close to extinction with numbers as low as 30. But through conservation efforts, this special bird is coming back.

Look for these guys on your island adventures. You can see them in pairs or groups around Haleakalā National Park or at various Nene Crossings around Maui.

When biking down Haleakalā, you’ll often see them – Keep an eye out and enjoy the view.

Hawaiian Honeycreeper

Another beautiful bird species in Maui is the Hawaiian Honeycreeper, a group of native birds known for their bright colors.

They are found in Maui’s forests, mostly in protected areas like Haleakalā National Park. They are important for pollination, feeding on nectar from native flowers with their specialized beaks.

The ‘apapane and ‘i‘iwi are two of the most well-known honeycreepers on Maui, and you can easily recognize them by their bright red feathers.

Many Hawaiian Honeycreepers are endangered due to habitat loss, disease, and predation by introduced species. Conservation efforts are key to saving these birds and their habitat.

Hawaiian Owls

The Hawaiian owl, also known as the Pueo, is a culturally significant bird in Hawaii. These short-eared owls are considered protectors or guardians (Aumakua) in Hawaiian tradition, a connection between heaven and earth.

They’re a reminder of the ancient spirits and their connection to nature.

These special owls are easy to identify by their short ear tufts. Their pale, mottled feathers blend in with the branches of trees and the ground where they build their nests.

As you enjoy all the natural beauty in this guide, being respectful and responsible is key. For us Hawaiians, it means living in harmony with the local wildlife.

One important step is choosing ocean tours and using reef-safe sunscreen whenever possible. Regular sunscreens contain chemicals that harm coral reefs and other marine life like sea urchins.

Reef-safe options protect your skin and the delicate ecosystems. It’s a small action with a big impact on Maui’s marine environments.

Also, while we’ve already mentioned this point throughout this guide, please do not touch these animal species in Maui and, instead, just take photographs.