In a groundbreaking intersection of science and conservation, a program aimed at protecting critically endangered native bird species in Hawai’i has unveiled advanced efforts that incorporate cutting-edge technology.
The initiative centers on the development of ‘reproductively incompatible’ male mosquitoes, genetically altered in laboratory settings to ensure their reproduction does not contribute to the existing population of invasive species that threaten Hawai’i’s native honeycreepers.
These specially engineered male mosquitoes have been infused with the bacteria Wolbachia, which is found in a variety of wild insect species. This bacteria disrupts the reproductive capabilities of the mosquitoes, rendering them incapable of producing viable offspring when they mate with native female mosquitoes. Consequently, the introduction of these male mosquitoes to the local environment is expected to substantially diminish the mosquito population.
Importantly, male mosquitoes, regardless of their Wolbachia infection status, do not feed on blood and do not transmit diseases, as they survive primarily on plant juices and nectar. While the invasive female mosquitoes do bite, the intervention is deemed safe, as the use of Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes does not involve genetic modification.
The male mosquitoes used in this effort are descendants of those originally collected from Hawai’i, and creating a sufficient supply for the project involved multiple generations of breeding. The initiative is led by a collaborative effort known as Birds, Not Mosquitoes, under the guidance of the American Bird Conservancy, and is explicit in its goal of combating avian diseases like avian malaria, which are transmitted by invasive Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes.
The overall strategy employs the Incompatible Insect Technique (IIT), a biological ‘birth control’ method known for effectively curtailing mosquito populations and has been implemented with success globally to combat diseases such as dengue and malaria.
To optimize the likelihood of mating between the adult male mosquitoes and the local population of wild females, the project utilizes an approach known as ‘overflooding.’ By releasing a significantly higher number of IIT males—specifically at a ratio of 10:1 compared to wild males—the initiative ensures local females have increased chances of mating with these incompatible males, effectively suppressing population growth.
Maximizing the reach of these biological tools, drones have been specifically adapted to deliver the IIT male mosquitoes into the targeted regions of Hawai’i. The drones, designed for moderate payloads, have proven to be optimal for the task compared to those typically used in military applications.
Adam Knox, a drone pilot and Project Manager for the Aerial Deployment of Mosquitoes at the American Bird Conservancy, elaborates on these drone specifications, indicating they are calibrated to successfully cover extensive terrains that include remote, mountainous locations.
The drone technology allows for the deployment of biodegradable pods, each containing approximately 1,000 male mosquitoes. The pods, crafted from sterilized biodegradable materials, serve to protect the mosquitoes until they are released and subsequently decompose upon exposure to natural elements.
This innovative method marks the first documented instance of mosquito delivery via drones, demonstrating a significant advancement in conservation techniques. Prior to drone implementation, mosquito deliveries were conducted via helicopters, which presented safety risks to human personnel.
Drones not only enhance safety for the conservation teams, but they also provide greater flexibility when navigating unpredictable weather patterns commonly found in Hawai’i.
Knox expresses his enthusiasm regarding the integration of drone technology with conservation efforts, reflecting on how this project resonates with his personal passion for remote-controlled vehicles. This love for technology motivates Knox and his team, who have dedicated considerable efforts over the years to facilitate the deployment of effective conservation measures in challenging landscapes.
As IIT male mosquitoes are introduced to their target environments, collaboration persists among various ongoing conservation strategies. Organizations like the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance are maintaining facilities in Hawai’i that focus on the captive breeding of endangered bird species.
Timing is critical; the suppression of invasive mosquito populations will enable the return of endangered birds to their natural habitat, fostering the potential for population rebirth.
Hawai’i’s native birds are increasingly vulnerable due to invasive species and climate change which has allowed harmful mosquitoes to encroach higher elevations where these birds previously thrived. The battle against these invasive diseases is urgent; over 33 species of honeycreepers have already been declared extinct due to avian malaria, with drastic implications for the ecological heritage of the islands.
Chris Farmer, Program Director for the American Bird Conservancy in Hawai’i, emphasizes the dire need for effectively addressing invasive mosquito populations, stating that without intervention, numerous native birds are at risk of vanishing.
However, hope remains in the continuous application of technology to combat these pressing ecological threats. A multi-faceted approach, combining drone-delivered IIT mosquitoes and simultaneous habitat restoration efforts, is underway to ensure the survival of existing bird populations and the reclamation of their ecosystems.
The initiative to employ drone technology and introduce ‘reproductively incompatible’ mosquitoes is a testament to human ingenuity in conservation and a pivotal move towards safeguarding the indigenous wildlife of Hawai’i. As technology evolves and environmental strategies diversify, there is optimism that meaningful change can be achieved in protecting Hawai’ian honeycreepers from extinction.
image source from：https://www.forbes.com/sites/grrlscientist/2025/06/10/drones-deliver-millions-of-mosquitos-to-prevent-bird-extinctions-in-hawaii/
