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 for easy nectar-sipping. But as environmental
impacts turn the seasonal migrations deadly, the I’iwi, classified Vulnerable
on the International
Union for the Conservation of Nature Red List, is at risk
of extinction.
Mosquitoes, feral pigs, and
climate change
Avian malaria was introduced to
Hawaii around 1826. The disease is carried by mosquitoes and is deadly to many
of Hawaii’s birds. Avian malaria is thought to be the most urgent threat facing
the I’iwi, which is being considered for listing under the Endangered
Species Act. Today, invasive feral pigs and climate change are creating
conditions that favor mosquitoes and put I’iwi at higher risk.
Avian malaria is spreading in
Hawaii as the islands become increasingly hospitable to mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes need standing water to lay their eggs; feral pigs dig wallows, which
collect water and turn into stagnant muddy pools–very attractive
to mosquitoes looking to lay eggs.
Meanwhile, the range of
suitable habitat for mosquitoes in the region is expanding. Human-induced
climate change is causing temperatures to rise globally–including in Hawai’i.
I’iwi populations in the lowlands are disappearing as a result of Avian
malaria. These and other native birds of Hawaii are more likely to avoid
contracting avian malaria when they are in the higher, cooler regions of
Hawai’i. However, this mosquito-free range is ever-shrinking as
temperatures rise.
Of all the honeycreepers that
have been tested, I’iwi are the most vulnerable to Avian Malaria. Current
optimistic projections hold that I’iwi will be on the verge of
extinction shortly after the turn of the century.
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