Hawaii is an island chain in the Pacific Ocean that is home to many different animals. This article gives you an overview of the diversity of species in Hawaii.
Mammals and reptiles in Hawaii
The wildlife in Hawaii is very diverse. Some species are endemic, meaning they are only found on the island chain.
- Mammals found in the wild in Hawaii include sheep, pigs, goats, and fallow deer. Bats are also increasing.
- Mongooses were introduced to the islands as a natural remedy for a rat infestation, which is why they are also widely used.
- A small population of the Hawaiian monk seal is extremely rare and only lives in Hawaii.
- Reptiles that you can observe are mainly chameleons and turtles. The green turtle, which is native to the island, is under protection.
- You won’t find snakes in Hawaii. However, there are still poisonous animals. One example is the gold tree climber. This frog releases the venom through its skin glands.
Birds and underwater animals in Hawaii
In addition to the mammals and reptiles mentioned, there are also exciting birds and underwater animals to watch in Hawaii.
- Above all, one should probably mention the state bird of Hawaii, the Hawaiian goose, at this point. The bird is also under protection.
- Also, on the fourth largest island, Kauai, live pheasants, quail, turkeys and partridges.
- Hawaiian crows, Hawaiian buzzards, black-winged stilts and short-eared owls can also be found on the remaining islands.
- In addition, more than 600 different species of fish live around Hawaii. These include surgeonfish and triggerfish. The state symbols of Hawaii also include the yellow-orange coral fish with black stripes.
- Sharks are also increasingly around the Hawaiian Islands.