Between March and August, the female palila constructs a nest out of grasses, stems, roots and bark in the branches of the mamane tree (Sophora chrysophylla), and lines it with lichen and leaves (4). After mating, the female lays two eggs and incubates them for 17 days, being fed by the male during this time (6). After the eggs have hatched, both the male and the female work to bring food to the nestlings, who fledge after 31 days (4).
The palila eats the unripe seeds of the mamane plant (Sophora chrysophylla) as well as the moth larvae (Cydia spp.) that feed on the same seeds (6). As the birds feed they call melodiously, but calls at dawn and dusk are louder and sharper (4).