‘I‘iwi bird and the ‘Ōhi‘a Lehua

Native Species Project
Written By Kamāwaelualani Corp.

By Bree Blake

The ‘I‘iwi and ‘Ōhi‘a are in a symbiotic relationship. Mo‘olelo (story/ narrative) has it that the Volcano Goddess Pele was jealous that her romantic interest, ‘Ōhi‘a fell in love with another wahine (woman) named Lehua. Out of hurt, she poured lava over the lovers. ‘Ōhia lifted Lehua over his head to protect her. Lehua is now one of the only plants that can grow from lava. The ‘I‘iwi is Lehua’s ‘aumakua (personal/ family god) and is said to be watching over Lehua to this day. Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death is quickly causing ‘Ōhi‘a to go extinct. For more info on how to kōkua visit ‘Ōhi‘a Love.

Projects this Mo’olelo is featured in

Featured
Native Species Project
Rice Street
Native Species Project
Rice Street

The endemic species project is dedicated to raising public awareness of Kaua‘i’s endemic and endangered species. Endemic means that these species are found nowhere else in the world. For more info on how to kōkua with protecting our native species please visit the Kaua‘i Invasive Species Committee.

Rice Street
Kamāwaelualani Corp.

Kamāwaelualani Corp. is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to empower Kaua‘i and her people through cultural and environmental sustainability and education.

https://kamawaelualani.org
Previous

Green Sphinx Moth and ‘Ālula
Next

Koa Tree and the ‘Elepaio