We recently returned from a family wedding at Lake Chelan in Eastern Washington. What was most notable was the region that was once desert is now a land of vineyards and fruit orchards. However, there were very few birds, wildlife and even insects.
The contrast with Hawaii’s abundant and varied wildlife was astounding. It was too quiet there especially with no bird songs. Coming home, we really appreciated all the interesting animal life we experience in our gardens and forests.
Some are native and some not. For example, we have many species of lizards running here and there to feed on insects. The one we have seen for years is called the American Chameleon because of its ability to change colors.
We also have Bahamian Anole that is dark brown with diamond markings on the back and a bright red dewlap of the male. There are others as well like the Cuban Anole on Oahu. We also have iguanas, at least eight species of gecko, skinks and at least two species of true Chameleon.
We have one species of snake called the Island Blind Snake. However, none are native to Hawaii. In fact there are no native land lizards, snakes, frogs, toads or turtles.
Some came as hitchhikers, stowaways and in the days when there were few laws, in the pet trade. Now it is illegal to bring in any of these types of animals and is even penalized by fines and even jail time. With special permits from the Department of Agriculture some are allowed for scientific purposes.
Most aforementioned are harmless or .