Island Conservation
Restoration of Lehua Island could result in alternative habitat for seabirds whose nesting sites are threatened by sea level rise. Islands are sentinels for sea level change. Because of their small size and often remote locations, the consequences of sea level rise manifest quickly on islands. Because the stakes are so high and the consequences of sea […]
A tsunami strikes Hawaiian islands with globally important seabird species; scientists can study its effects to better understand imminent ecological threats presented by sea level rise. Earthquake-generated tsunamis can cause sudden flooding in coastal areas and islands. Damage to human health and infrastructure caused by past tsunamis is well-documented–but what happens to the affected region’s […]
Investigaciones han revelado alarmantes tasas de disminución en aves marinas endémicas de Hawai, pero los esfuerzos de conservación están generando impulso y ofrecen esperanza para estas especies amenazadas. Por: André Raine Las aves marinas en peligro de extinción de Kaua’i enfrentan disminuciones poblacionales catastróficas, tal como lo muestra nuestro nuevo artículo en el diario Condor. […]
Research has revealed alarming rates of decline for Hawai’i-endemic seabirds, but conservation efforts are building momentum and offer hope for these threatened species. By: André Raine Kaua’i’s endangered seabirds are facing catastrophic declines, as our new paper in the journal Condor shows. Using data from radar surveys conducted between 1993 and 2013, we found that […]
Hawai’i takes steps to promote sustainability in the Aloha+ Challenge with an ambitious plan that aims to protect people and the natural environment. Hawai’i is taking action to promote sustainability and support local communities with a new and ambitious set of conservation goals. The Sustainable Hawai’i Initiative aims to protect local resources and facilitate sustainable […]
As environmental impacts unfold in Hawaii, I’iwis’ seasonal migrations turn deadly. The scarlet I’iwi is hard to miss, standing out vibrantly against the deep green backdrop of Hawaii’s foliage. The native bird, a Hawaiian honeycreeper, fits gracefully into its natural habitat. Its curved bill, for example, matches the shape of the native ‘Opelu flower, which makes […]
Scientists are assembling data to predict how climate change will drive plant invasions. With climate change in motion, plant species could migrate to regions that are changing to accommodate new species. Non-native (introduced) species are considered invasive when proof of harm to the ecosystem is observed. Climate change-driven shifts in abiotic factors–non-living features of the environment–could affect […]
As climate change progresses, researchers notice a change in the diet of Polar Bears. A shift from seals to goose eggs could spell trouble for ecosystem balance. Normally, Polar Bears feed on Ringed Seals by stealthily sneaking up on the ice sheets to catch their prey. But, as climate change progresses and sea ice melts, […]
Drones enlisted to monitor global climate change and support conservation efforts. As global temperatures continue to rise, the consequences of climate change are becoming more apparent. Scientists can collect data on the rates at which ecosystems are changing to gain insight into the effects of climate change, and then apply their findings to infer what ecosystems […]
Conservationists move 15 Black-footed Albatross chicks to O’ahu to protect the species from sea level rise. The James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge in O’ahu, Hawaii has welcomed 15 Black-footed Albatross chicks (Phoebastria nigripes) to their new home this month. The chicks were born about three weeks prior on Midway Atoll, where approximately 90% of their […]