Omao

Basic Description

The Omao is an unobtrusive resident of wet native forests on the island of Hawaii. This gray-and-brown thrush often sits still for long periods before eventually announcing its presence with a loud, rising-and-falling song or distinctive calls that can sound like a police officer’s whistle or a croaking frog. Omao feed mainly on berries of both native and non-native trees and shrubs, and they also eat insects, spiders, and flower parts. This species is one of five thrushes that once inhabited the six main Hawaiian islands. But sadly, Omao is the only one that has remained relatively common; two other species are critically endangered, while two others are extinct.