Opossum Capture Underscores Invasive Species Threat in Hawaii

Honolulu, HI – the Hawai’i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) recently captured an opossum at a big-box store in Iwilei, highlighting the persistent challenge of invasive species in the state. The discovery follows a series of similar incidents in recent years, raising concerns about the potential impact on Hawaii’s delicate ecosystem.

The HDOA’s Plant Quarantine Branch received reports of an opossum sighting on December 12th. Inspectors responded promptly, setting traps baited with bananas, apples, and cantaloupe. After several days of monitoring,they successfully captured the animal on December 18th.

“Inspectors returned to the site on Sunday evening, December 15th, where they found opossum droppings in a storage container at the store,” a HDOA spokesperson stated. The nine-pound male opossum will be euthanized and tested for rabies, as its origin remains unknown.Store employees reported not seeing the animal emerge from any shipping containers, but it was observed roaming the area at night.

A History of Opossum Sightings in Honolulu

• August 2024: An opossum captured at a Kalihi freight company.
• July 2024: an opossum captured on a downtown Honolulu office building window ledge.
• June 2016: An opossum captured by workers unloading a cargo ship at Honolulu Harbor.
• July 2015: An opossum captured in Kaka‘ako near the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Office.
• July 2012: An opossum caught in a cat trap at a Sand Island warehouse.
• August 2011: an opossum found in a shipping container in the Ward Center area.
• 2005: Two opossums found – one in a military cargo plane at Hickam Air Force Base, the other at a U.S. Postal Service facility.

Opossums,native to North America,are omnivores with diets including insects,bird eggs,rodents,fruits,and vegetables. While less prone to rabies than some mammals, they can carry parasites and other diseases, posing a threat to Hawaii’s unique wildlife.

The HDOA urges the public to report any sightings of unusual animals to the statewide Pest Hotline at 808-643-PEST (7378). Early detection and swift action are crucial in preventing the establishment of invasive species and protecting Hawaii’s fragile ecosystem.

Hawaii Fishpond Guardians Urge drivers to Stop Reckless Driving

Caretakers of a historic fishpond in Keaukaha, Hawaii, are pleading with drivers to stop the perilous practice of “burning rubber,” citing important damage to the fragile ecosystem.

The fishpond, a vital part of the Keaukaha community and a significant cultural landmark, is suffering from the effects of tire smoke and debris caused by drivers performing burnouts. This activity not only pollutes the water but also disrupts the delicate balance of the fishpond’s ecosystem,threatening the local fish population and the overall health of the habitat.

“The pollution from the burning rubber is directly impacting the fish and the overall health of the pond,” explains one caretaker, whose concerns reflect the sentiments of the entire community. “We’re asking drivers to show respect for this sacred place and for the environment.”

The impact extends beyond the immediate environmental concerns. the fishpond is not just an ecological treasure; it’s a cornerstone of Hawaiian culture, representing generations of sustainable fishing practices and a deep connection to the land. The damage caused by reckless driving threatens this cultural heritage.

Local authorities are aware of the issue and are exploring options to address the problem, perhaps including increased patrols and stricter enforcement of traffic laws in the area. However, the community emphasizes the importance of voluntary cooperation from drivers.

The plea from the Keaukaha community serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the potential consequences of neglecting environmental stewardship. The damage to the fishpond highlights the interconnectedness of community, culture, and the environment, urging a collective effort to protect these precious resources.

Honolulu Opossum Capture Raises Red Flags About Invasive Species

Honolulu has become a hotbed for sightings of the normally North American opossum, and a recent capture in a local Big Box store has experts sounding the alarm about the potential dangers of these invasive species. The ongoing intrusion of these creatures into Hawaii’s fragile ecosystem underscores the need for heightened awareness and preventative measures.



Our Senior Editor, , recently spoke with Dr. Alana Keoloha, an expert in invasive species management and a Professor at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa, to learn more about this concerning trend.



Editor: Dr. Keoloha, thank you for joining us today. This recent opossum capture has certainly generated a lot of buzz.Can you shed some light on why these sightings are so concerning for Hawaii?



Dr.Keoloha: Certainly. Opossums, while not inherently aggressive, pose a important threat to Hawaii’s unique biodiversity. They are adaptable omnivores, meaning they eat just about anything – insects, birds, rodents, fruits, you name it. This can lead to competition with native species for resources, possibly disrupting delicate ecological balances.



Editor: We understand that this isn’t the first time an opossum has been found in Honolulu. Can you tell us a bit about the history of these sightings?



Dr. Keoloha: Sadly, opossum sightings in Honolulu are becoming increasingly common. Over the past decade,we’ve seen them pop up in various locations,from freight companies and warehouses to office buildings and even a military base. Each sighting highlights the vulnerability of our island ecosystem to accidental introductions.



Editor: What are some of the likely pathways for opossums to arrive in Hawaii?



Dr.Keoloha: The most probable route is through accidental stowaways in shipping containers or cargo. Opossums are known to seek shelter in warm, dark places, and regrettably, a shipping container presents a perfect chance.



Editor: What steps are being taken to address this issue?



Dr. Keoloha: The Hawaii Department of Agriculture is working diligently to manage these incidents. They’re vital in trapping and removing these animals, and they play a crucial role in monitoring and inspecting incoming shipments. However, public vigilance is equally crucial.



Editor: How can the general public play a part in preventing the spread of these invasive species?







Dr. Keoloha: Everyone can be a part of the solution. Reporting any unusual animal sightings to the authorities is the first step. Additionally, being mindful of inspecting personal belongings and luggage after traveling to reduce the risk of unknowingly transporting invasive species is crucial.



Editor: Thank you so much, Dr. Keoloha, for sharing your expertise with us today. This insight is invaluable in understanding the challenges posed by invasive species like opossums and empowering our community to take action.