x VERTEBRATES x
Reptilia
Eretmochelys imbricata (hawksbill sea turtle) Adult hawksbill sea turtles are primarily found in tropical coral reefs. They are usually seen resting in caves and ledges in and around these reefs throughout the day. As a highly migratory species, they inhabit a wide range of habitats, from the open ocean to lagoons. The environment of Hawaii allow this animal such conditions. They are however, extremely endangered species so conserving and protecting the population of hawksbill sea turtle is crucial. |
Carnivores
Monachus schauinslandi (Hawaiian monk seal) Hawaiian monk seals are critically endangered and efforts of conversation and saving this endangered species is in act such as translocation, captive care, and habitat cleanup. The species is limited to the habitat of the Hawaiian Island due to the immense distance separating the Hawaiian Islands from other land masses. |
Omnivores
Sus scrofa (feral pig) Pua'a, the native name for feral pigs, are responsible for great ecological damage by rooting, destroying native vegetation, and spreading invasive plant species. The pua'a also create water pools in depressions from their rooting and in cavities left behind after they've eaten the starchy interior of knocked down Tree Ferns. These water pools are an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes that transmit avian malaria. Native forest bird habitat and numbers have been significantly reduced because of the feral pigs. The effect the swine has on the environment is negative. |
Rodents
Rattus rattus (black rat) Black rats are able to carry a number of pathogens are the best known. Black rats are capable of adapting to a wide variety of habitats. Even in the case of the lava plains of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, black rats are able to climb whatever hill, nest with whatever resources, burrow, small depressions of water, and etc. |