Kokia drynarioides is an endangered shrub that is endemic to dry forests on the island of Hawaii. Overgrazing by livestock, competition from invasive weeds, habitat disturbances caused by development, and forest fires have reduced this species to less than ten plants in three naturally-occurring populations. Kokia drynarioides is a food source for nectar-drinking birds called honeycreepers, which have become endangered as a result of this and other native plant species’ declining numbers. Federal and state land management agencies in Hawaii are working to carefully manage sensitive habitats to reduce threats endangered species like Kokia drynarioides.

Photo © David Liittschwager & Susan Middleton.