Hawaii residents are urged to use the Pest Hotline to promptly report sightings of invasive pests such as snakes, unusually aggressive stinging ants, and illegal or unknown animals. Call 643-PEST (643-7378)
Importation into Hawaii is prohibited by Hawaii Administrative Rules. Considered a Hawaii State Injurious Species, it is prohibited to release Injurious Species into the wild; transport them to islands or locations within the State where they are not already established; or export outside the State.
Description:
Bird to 17 cm (7 in) long with a black head and crest, and red patches under the eyes and tail. Also has a white throat, breast and underside; gray wings and back.
Male & females look similar
Native to India and Burma, brought to Hawaii as pets, possibly escaped, but may have been illegally released in the 1960's.
Harm:
Pest of agriculture and gardens. Feeds on fruits, vegetables, flower buds, and insects.
Spreads the seeds of invasive plants, including miconia, ivy gourd and false kava.
Aggressively chases other birds and competes with them for food and space. There is concern that they may compete with native birds where they co-exist.
Where is it invading?
Kauai: Not known to be present. All sightings should be reported to KISC or HDOA.
Oahu: Present in large numbers island-wide, although somewhat less numerous than red-vented bulbuls. Residents and agencies should prevent transport to neighbor islands.
Maui: Not known to be present. All sightings should be reported to MISC or DOFAW.
Big Island: Not known to be present. All sightings should be reported to BIISC or HDOA.
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