10 Animals That Live In Hawaii - Online Field Guide (2024)

Discover the unique and diverse array of wildlife that calls the Hawaiian Islands home, with species ranging from majestic sea creatures to rare land mammals and birds. Explore the ecological wonders of these animals that contribute to Hawaii’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.

1. Hawaiian Monk Seal (`Ilio holo I ka uaua)

The Hawaiian Monk Seal, known locally as ‘Ilio holo I ka uaua’, is a native marine mammal that has become a symbol of the islands’ unique wildlife. Primarily found on the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, these seals enjoy basking on sandy beaches and foraging in the surrounding coral reefs.

As an endangered species, Hawaiian Monk Seals face threats from human interference, climate change, and habitat loss. To combat their declining population, numerous conservation efforts are being implemented, focusing on habitat protection, rehabilitation programs, and public education to underscore their significance as a treasured and endemic species of Hawaii.

2. Nene Goose (Nene)

Image by Brenda Zaun of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Headquarters License: CC BY 2.0

The Nene Goose, or Branta sandvicensis, is celebrated as Hawaii’s official state bird and is a remarkable example of adaptive radiation—the process where species evolve to fill different ecological niches. This bird’s lineage traces back to Canadian geese that arrived in Hawaii thousands of years ago, which gradually adapted to the island’s unique environment.

Despite its evolutionary success and status, the Nene is under threat due to loss of habitat, predation by introduced species, and other human-related impacts. Conservation programs are crucial to safeguard the future of this iconic species, ensuring that Hawaii’s state bird continues to thrive amidst the challenges it faces.

3. Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle (Honu)

Image by No machine-readable author provided. Caracas1830 assumed (based on copyright claims). License: CC BY-SA 2.5

The Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle, affectionately known as Honu, holds a place of great cultural importance in Hawaiian tradition, often depicted in art and mythology as a guardian spirit or ‘aumakua. With its scientific name Chelonia mydas, the Honu is not only a cultural icon but also a key player in the marine ecosystem, contributing to the health of seagrass beds and coral reefs.

In recent decades, much effort has been directed towards the marine conservation of the Honu, including legal protection and initiatives like nesting site preservation. These actions aim to ensure the Honu remains an integral part of Hawaii’s marine life and cultural legacy for future generations.

4. Humpback Whale (Koholā)

The waters of Hawaii are graced each year by the seasonal arrival of the Humpback Whale, known in Hawaiian as Koholā, showcasing their spectacular migratory behavior. Humpbacks, or Megaptera novaeangliae, journey to Hawaii’s warm waters to breed and give birth, providing an awe-inspiring spectacle for residents and visitors alike.

This phenomenon has become a cornerstone of Hawaii’s whale watching tourism, attracting thousands eager to witness these gentle giants up close. While these majestic creatures frolic and thrive off the islands, various protections and regulations are enforced to ensure their safety and conservation during their critical migratory period.

5. Hawaiian Hoary Bat (‘Ōpe’ape’a)

The Hawaiian Hoary Bat, locally known as ‘Ōpe’ape’a, stands out as Hawaii’s only native land mammal, a subspecies distinct from its North American relatives. As a nocturnal creature, Lasiurus cinereus semotus plays an essential role in the island’s nighttime ecology, serving as a natural pest controller.

Despite its importance, this enigmatic bat is facing significant challenges, with habitat loss and the rise of wind turbines posing threats to its population. Efforts to map their habitats and understand their patterns are crucial to developing conservation strategies that will help protect this unique species amidst the changing landscape.

6. Hawaiian Yellow-Faced Bee

Forest & Kim Starr, Forest and Kim Starr License: CC BY 3.0 us

The Hawaiian Yellow-Faced Bee is a critical pollinator within the Hawaiian ecosystem, representing a group of the few native Hylaeus species that have adapted to the islands’ flora. These small bees are essential for the fertilization of many indigenous plants, ensuring the continuation of Hawaii’s botanical diversity.

However, as endangered insects, Hawaiian Yellow-Faced Bees face threats from habitat destruction, invasive species, and climate change. Conservationists are striving to protect these vital pollinators with initiatives aimed at habitat restoration and public education, highlighting the bees’ indispensable role in maintaining Hawaii’s ecological balance.

7. Hawaiian Hawk (‘Io)

Image by cliff1066 License: CC BY 2.0

The Hawaiian Hawk, or ‘Io, is one of the few raptors native to Hawaii and is a revered creature in Hawaiian culture, often regarded as a status symbol and a family ‘aumakua or ancestral spirit. With the scientific name Buteo solitarius, this bird of prey is known for its solitary nature and its role in the island’s mythology and traditions.

Despite its cultural significance, the Hawaiian Hawk faces several challenges that threaten its survival, including habitat degradation and the impact of introduced species. Conservation efforts are underway, emphasizing the need to preserve the natural habitats of these proud birds so that they may continue to soar over the Hawaiian Islands.

8. Axis Deer (Chital)

Image by Chinmayisk License: CC BY-SA 3.0

Originally introduced to Hawaii for game hunting, the Axis Deer, or Axis axis, has since become an invasive species with a significant environmental impact. With no natural predators on the islands, their population has grown, causing ecological strain on native vegetation and agricultural lands.

To mitigate their environmental effects, various management strategies have been implemented, including controlled hunting regulations. These measures aim to balance the deer’s population growth with the well-being of Hawaii’s ecosystems, ensuring that the islands’ delicate habitats are preserved.

9. Manta Ray

Image by Ken FUNAKOSHI License: CC BY-SA 2.0

Manta Rays, specifically Manta alfredi, are among the most majestic marine creatures inhabiting the waters around the Hawaiian Islands. With their graceful movements and impressive wing spans, they provide a captivating sight for divers and snorkelers along the Kona Coast and beyond.

The behavior of these gentle giants, especially their feeding routines, has made them a star attraction for eco-tourism, with nighttime diving excursions being particularly popular. These tours offer a sustainable way to experience and appreciate the natural beauty of Manta Rays in their native habitat.

10. Hawaiian Stilt (`Ae`o)

Image by David Eickhoff from Hawaiʻi, USA License: CC BY 2.0

The Hawaiian Stilt, known locally as `Ae`o, is a distinct subspecies of stilt, Himantopus mexicanus knudseni, characterized by its long, pink legs and elegant demeanor. As specialized wetland birds, these stilts depend on the archipelago’s freshwater marshes and coastal ponds for foraging and nesting.

The existence of the Hawaiian Stilt underscores the crucial role of wetland preservation in maintaining biodiversity. Conservation measures, including habitat protection and restoration efforts, are key to ensuring the `Ae`o’s continued presence as a part of Hawaii’s rich avian tapestry.