Once abundant on Moloka'i and Maui, the exotic crested honeycreeper now only thrives on Maui. Their estimated population is about 3,800 birds. They are found today only on the windward slopes of Haleakla on Maui. These birds thrive in the 'ohi'a forests from 4,200 to 7,100 feet in elevation. Enough tropical flowers bloom year around in these forests to keep them constantly fed.
Honeycreepers usually live in flocks.
The Crested honeycreeper is 6.5 to 7 inches in length, and the largest of the honeycreepers on Maui. There large size gives them dominance over other species, and they will drive off their rivals looking for food. Their diet consists mainly of nectar from the crowns of blooming ohi'a trees. They also feed on small insects, fruit, and on the flowers of understory plants. Upon first appearance, the crested honeycreeper looks a dull grey and black.