Bridging Worlds: How AI and Hawaiian Oli Chant Are Saving Native Birds
Since journeying through numerous forests around the world I discovered that Garden Isle in Hawaii possesses a uniqueness not found elsewhere. Unfortunately, the soundscape is growing quieter as native birds face extinction. Each lost call is like a chapter torn from nature’s songbook.
That is why a recently published effort where AI technology is brought together with Historic Hawaiian practices to assist in the conservation of the said birds piqued my curiosity and even brought a tear to my eye.

Bird lovers worldwide are advised to visit the Hawaiian Islands owing to their beauty. However, since they were last sighted, most birds have gone extinct.
The Silent Crisis of Hawaii’s Birds
Out of 84 forest bird species, 58 have vanished forever. Today, 24 out of the 26 remaining species are endangered. The list of those most at risk, such as the ʻAkikiki, ʻAkekeʻe, Kiwikiu and ʻAkohekohe, is heartbreaking.
The primary threats to these vibrant birds, with their honey-gold feathers and cheerful songs, are habitat destruction, climate change, and invasive species.
Scientists predict that without further measures, 4 honeycreepers could disappear entirely within the next 10 years. But artificial intelligence and the cultural heartbeat of Hawaiʻi have created a hope to reverse the current extension threats.

Listening to the Forest with AI
Biology professor Patrick Hart and his team are doing something extraordinary at University of Hawaii. Using artificial intelligence powered-tools, they are tracking populations of birds in forests so distant that human eyesight is almost impossible.
Imagine this: acoustic recorders placed in the wilderness capture hours of bird songs. These sounds, which once took a human ear and great patience to examine, are now processed through an algorithm called “Perch,” developed in collaboration with Google.
This breakthrough means Hart’s team can identify and count bird species more accurately and across vast landscapes. It’s like giving conservationists a stethoscope to listen to the pulse of the forest.
But why AI? Hart explains it best, “Hawaiian birds are variable in what they say to each other. That’s why training algorithms to detect their songs and calls has been so difficult.” With AI stepping in, these challenges are starting to seem possible.
Hawaiian Oli Chant: Breathing Life into Tradition
Use of technology is a good thing! Hart and his team partnered with ‘Ahuimanu, a bird preservation nonprofit group, to compose an Oli – a Hawaiian chant in hope of honoring native birds.
In artistic context, this chant was composed by cultural practitioner Kekuhi Kanahele Keali’ikanaka’oleohaililani who says each bird is linked to a growing aspect of nature and recovery.
Noah Gomes from ‘Ahui Manu perfectly puts it: “The mele recalls and reaffirms the relationships between ourselves, the birds, and the environment.”
This combination of relationship of science and tradition is something that I have witnessed in the native countries about indigenous tribes. Because more often than not it is the indigenous knowledge that is the strongest defense mechanism for ecosystems and and how it pairs beautifully with modern science.
Why This Matters to Us All
Hawaiian birds are not only considered an endemic treasure, but also an important part in global biodiversity. Each time the call of every ‘Amakihi or ‘Apapane fades out, it indicates an even greater yield loss on the world scale.
Conservation is not just saving birds, but It is about preserving the web of life. Hawaii is teaching us that we have to pick and understand that both ancient wisdom and modern technology can coexist beautifully and provide realistic solutions.
What Can We Do?
Here are ways you can help to save the birdlife at Hawaii:
- Support Conservation Efforts: Donate to organizations like the Pacific Islands Climate Adaptation Science Center or ʻĀhuimanu.
- Learn and Share: Spread awareness about these endangered species by sharing their stories.
- Travel Responsibly: Respect the land and wildlife when visiting Hawaii.
A Final Thought
Every time I hike through a Hawaiian forest, I pause to listen. The songs of the ʻApapane and ʻAmakihi are more than melodies. And conservations efforts should gear up to save them from extension.
It gives an emerging hope that scientists and cultural practitioners are working together to save these live assets of the world.
By amplifying our ability with the use of AI to protect these birds and Hawaiian chants reminding us of their spiritual significance.