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The rare and critically endangered âakohekohe, or crested honeycreeper, perches on a branch. Local scientists hope to start a mosquito control project that could prevent the spread of avian malaria and save birds like the âakohekohe, kiwikiu, âakekeâe and âakikiki, which have the highest risk of extinction among Hawaiiâs native birds. â C. ROBBY KOHLEY photo
Local scientists are steps closer to playing mosquito matchmaker in an effort to quell avian malaria, one of the top threats to native birds facing extinction, such as Maui’s kiwikiu.
The multiagency mosquito control project, the first of its kind in the state, is currently in the process of acquiring state and federal permits. Trials could happen as early as next year if approvals move forward, Lainie Berry, a forest bird biologist with the state, said during a recent Board of Land and Natural Resources meeting.