|
|
|
|
|
|
The
'Ulili, or Wanderirng Tattler, are migratory
offshore seabirds. They fly over
2,000 miles from Alaska and Canada to Hawaii ,
where they spend their winters.
The
'Ulili has a call that sounds like "too-li-li",
which is thought to be the origin of its
Hawaiian name "'Ulili". 'Ulili is also the
Hawaiian word for the bamboo flute, which makes
a sound similar to the "too-li-li"
call.
This is
an energetic, intelligent and watchful little
bird. It announces the arrival of predators with
its call. In the Hawaiian song '"Ulili E", the
musical nature of this bird is depicted.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The
'Ulili stands about 11 inches, with a long
pointed bill. Soft plumage colors help the
'Ulili blend in with their habitat. This
adaptation of nature helps the 'Ulili camouflage
and blend in with its seasonal surroundings. The
'Ulili has a slate gray rump and tail feathers,
a light gray breast and underbody. The border
between the 'Ulili's belly and underbody is dark
gray. The female is slightly larger than the
male.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The
'Ulili is one of the migratory shorebirds which
were considered messengers and godlike, in the
ancient Hawaiian culture. 'Ulili were sent on
long journeys across the sea by the Hawaiian
Ali'i, chiefs and other royalty.
In the legend of Kana, the 'Ulili was sent on a
important mission with the Kolea, the Pacific
Golden Plover. In the legend, Chief Pepe'e sends
these intelligent and trustworthy birds to
search for a canoe carrying Kana and Niheu. The
'Ulili and Kolea find the canoe and help stop
the two warriors from capturing Pepe'es
lands.
|
|
|
BACK
TO 'ULILI
|