Haylin Chock
Outreach Associate, Kauai Invasive Species Committee
2026 Has been a very active summer. Kona lows flooding, devastating north shore of Oahu. Hurricanes Lala and Lowell ripping through the state and permanently altering landscapes across Hawaiʻi and Kauaʻi. One impact of natural disasters is the inevitable and unintended spread of invasive species.
During natural disasters in Hawaiʻi, sections of forests are flattened, flash flooding forces logs down stream and green waste gets moved all over the island. These conditions are perfect conditions for Little Fire Ants to move around and start new colonies. LFA have the ability to create surface tension on water and “raft” down waterways. This happens when ants stick together and are able to float until they can land in a new area. They are also some of the craftiest hitchhikers. LFA can catch a ride on plant and building materials or even vehicles.
Kauaʻi currently has 27 Little Fire Ant infestations ranging from the north shore to the far reaches of the west side. After Hurricane Lowell, many of non native trees were strewn across roadways and properties. As the island recovers and rebuilds homes and infrastructure, KISC encourages our community to stay vigilant for these tiny invaders once they are able to get back to normalcy. LFA test kits are still available at all Kauaʻi public libraries or you can request a kit to be mailed to you.
