Although Hawai'i has no offshore oil platforms, we are still at high risk of major oil spills from tankers and other vessel traffic, as more than 90 percent or our energy comes from oil. On land, oil transporting pipelines and storage tanks create additional risk.
Hawai'i is also at risk from natural disasters such as hurricanes and tsunamis that can affect critical wildlife habitats and populations. There are also disease outbreaks that can impact critical populations of threatened native birds. The recent avian botulism outbreak on Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge affecting over 150 critically endangered Laysan Ducks is just one example.
You may be surprised to know that the Hawai'i Wildlife Center will be the first and only facility in the Pacific Islands to respond to these types of emergencies, though Hawai'i has more endangered species per square mile than anywhere else in the world. The coastal lands, reef ecosystems and waters of the Hawaiian archipelago provide habitat for over 14 million seabirds, several endangered wetland and remote island birds, Hawaiian monk seals, hawksbill and green sea turtles, more than a dozen species of whales and dolphins and more than 7,000 marine fish and invertebrate species.
Now, with the help of a growing number of supporters from throughout Hawai'i and the nation, the construction of the Hawai'i Wildlife Center will be complete November 2011 here on Hawai'i Island.
The Hawai'i Wildlife Center, located on 2.2 acres in North Kohala, will be the first "oiled" wildlife response and rehabilitation facility for native Hawaiian wildlife. Trained staff and volunteers will provide the leadership and manpower necessary to respond effectively to Hawai'i's wildlife response needs. The HWC will also respond 7 days a week to treat sick and injured native birds from throughout the archipelago. It will provide the best achievable medical and husbandry care for sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife, including those affected by natural and man-made disasters, returning those successfully treated back to the wild. The animals in care will provide hands-on information and experience on these rare species, and also benefit the overall wildlife populations by providing a resource for public education about each individual and the needs of the entire population.
During my career, I have provided the necessary skills at twenty emergency responses throughout the world from Alaska to Africa. Because of my expertise, I am on alert around the clock to assist with efforts worldwide for seabird, waterbird and shorebird rescue. From experience, I know with certainty that Hawai‘i needs this critical wildlife response facility now. If you are interested in helping, email me or Donate online.
- Linda Elliott President,
HWC Board of Directors
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