Tree Trimming Information

Tree trimmers have a delicate relationship with manu-o-Kū. If trimming isn't done with care, branches that host a nest may be lost. A chick that falls from its nest to the ground will likely die because either the parents won't be able to care for it or it may be attacked by a predator. However, tree trimming can actually be beneficial to manu-o-Kū. Trimming can lead to a scar or cup to be formed in the branch. This creates an ideal nesting site that will protect the egg and chick. Keeping a tree trimmed can also make it easier for adults to fly in and out of the tree. Tree trimming may be one explanation for why there are so many manu-o-Kū in Honolulu, but it must be done with the utmost care to ensure no nesting sites are being destroyed.

Tree trimming tips for arborists and homeowners

Before trimming a tree, inspect the canopy for manu-o-Kū, inspect the ground for entirely white droppings (looks like white paint splatter) or white feathers and listen for vocalizing terns. If you see a bird, egg or chick in the tree or signs that they may nest in that tree, trimming should be delayed.
The most common trees in Honolulu that manu-o-Kū nest in are Kukui, Shower Tree, Monkeypod, Mahogany and Banyans.
If a chick is found on the ground, or an injured manu-o-Kū is found, please refer to the Injured and Abandoned bird page.
If you would like assistance in determining if a manu-o-Kū is nesting in a tree or area, you may contact us. A member of the Hui Manu-o-Kū would be more than happy to assist you.

Use our manu-o-Kū Nest Map to find specific trees that host nests

Before heading out to a project, or even on site, you can use this map to identify specific trees that are hosting, or have hosted, manu-o-Kū nests. Please be aware that the Nest Map cannot account for every nest in Honolulu. There will be nests that we don't know about so make sure to carefully inspect every tree. If you do find an undocumented nest, please tell us about it here.