LETS PRESERVE OUR HAWAIIANÂ BIRDS
THE NATIVE HAWAIIAN BIRD POPULATION IS DWINDLING DUE TO A SMALL KILLER
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Mosquitoes are transmitting diseases such as avian malaria and avian pox which are successfully bringing down the unique endemic Hawaiian forest birds.scroll down for more
How Did They Get Here?
mosquitoes arrived in 1826 by ships.
Mosquitoes were not here originally and were brought to Hawaii by European and American ships in 1826.There was probably sitting water on the ship allowing them to breed                                                            photo credit:Wikipedia
What are the Affects of Mosquitoes Here?
Mosquitoes don't have a big affect on us but they have serious affects on the native birds.
Mosquitoes have been one of the big killers of native wildlife in the Hawaiian islands.They transmit diseases that cause whole species of birds to go extinct.The two that have the biggest impact are avian malaria and avian pox.Avian malaria is a disease that starts to remove red blood cells which are responsible for oxygen this means it will eventually lead to death. Avian pox is a disease that will start creating bumps near the beak and eyes leading to trouble breathing and seeing.Also when bit around the feet the bumps will hurt the feet so it can't perch so it has to land on the ground where they are exposed to predators.One of the native birds last hope is to resort to the mountains where mosquitoes aren't adapted to the cold but global warming and mosquito breeding places are allowing the little killers to advance upwards. https://www.nwhc.usgs.gov/disease_information/other_diseases/avian_pox.jsp
What Causes Mosquito Breeding Places?
Mosquitoes breed in sitting water.In the forest there are some opportunities for sitting water to form.Pigs and other big mammals(including you) trample in soggy dirt and mud,causing puddles.This is where you can come in and help prevent such places.
This is how you can help.
How to Prevent Breeding Places
When hiking Don't step in wet mud.This causes standing water where mosquitoes breed.Empty buckets and wheels if you find any.Getting rid of laying trash can help too since it might hold water. If you see any mud puddles try to cover them up with dirt or mud. https://www.terminix.com/blog/diy/7-easy-ways-to-stop-mosquitoes-from-breeding-in-your-yard