This chain of volcanic islands is the richest area for endemic landbirds in the United States. Because of significant disturbances from introduced species, including disease-bearing mosquitoes, and conversion of large areas to agriculture or other uses, Hawaii also has the nation's highest concentration of endangered species. About twelve forest birds in the chain became extinct during the Twentieth Century, and many others are very close to that brink. In fact, only five species of native passerines are considered secure: Omao, Elepaio, Iiwi, Apapane, and Hawaii Amakihi. The main island chain supports important seabird breeding populations, including the endangered Dark-rumped Petrel and Newell's Shearwater. The Leeward Islands host immense numbers of nesting seabirds including important colonies of Black-footed and Laysan Albatrosses, Bonin Petrels, boobies, frigatebirds, and Gray-backed, Sooty, Noddy, and White Terns. Pelagic waters provide essential foraging sites for numerous shearwaters, petrels, terns, and other seabirds.

ABC-designated Globally Important Bird Areas in this BCR

Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge

Haleakala National Park (Haleakala and its Forests)

Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge

Hanawi Natural Area Reserve (Haleakala and its Forests)

Hawaiian Islands National Wildlife Refuge in the Northwest Hawaiian Islands, including Midway Atoll

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Kona Forest Unit

Hono O Na Pali Natural Area Reserve (Kauai Forests and Uplands)

Huleia National Wildlife Refuge

James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge

Kakahaia National Wildlife Refuge

Kaluahonu Preserve (Kauai Forests and Uplands)

Kau Forest Reserve

Kawainui Marsh Regional Park

Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge

Kokee State Park and Alakai Wilderness Area (Kauai Forests and Uplands)

Koolau State Forest (Haleakala and its Forests)

Makawao State Forest (Haleakala and its Forests)

Mauna Kea Forest Reserve

Pearl Harbor National Wildlife Refuge

Puu Waa Waa Wildlife Sanctuary

Waikamoi Preserve (Haleakala and its Forests)

Waimea Canyon State Park (Kauai Forests and Uplands)