Kirk Stirnweis (Colorado, New Hampshire, B. 1967) "Liwi" Signed lower left. Original Oil painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day of Issue Maximum Card of the 22c Iiwi issued on June 13, 1987. In the cool, moist early morning calm of Mauna Loa or Mauna Kea rain forest, a startling cacophonous cry breaks the calm. The tiny Iiwi has awaken. Dramatically colored with vibrant black and red plumage and white underwings, the Iiwi is a member of the Honey Creeper family, found only in the upland of the Hawaiian Islands - usually between three thousand and five thousand feet. In addition to its stark coloration, the Iiwi can be identified by its strong, downwardly curved beak. This long beak permits the Iiwi to sip nectar from even deep, bell-shaped flowers which it does not have to stab to feed. Its favorite food flower is the sophora tree, and Iiwis may feed only on nectar. After feeding, the lone Iiwi seeks the shelter of the rain forest canopy. Calling while in flight as well as when settled, the Iiwi utters a sharp croak which is only rarely repeated to form a song. Iiwis can be distinguished by their musk-like scent, which is characteristic of most Honey Creepers. Image Size: 13.5 x 18.25 in. Overall Size: 17.25 x 22.5 in. Unframed. (B11028) See More