Biologists are asking residents to help track the endangered ʻōpeʻapeʻa, also known as the “Hawaiian hoary bat,” by reporting sightings. According to the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, observations can be logged through the iNaturalist platform, where users submit sighting details and locations. The reports contribute to a database used for research and conservation efforts.
The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife is reminding the public that sightings of ʻōpeʻapeʻa bats are especially valuable between August and October, when the species is most active. The bats, which can travel up to 12 miles a night while hunting insects, are often seen at dusk and dawn. Female bats typically have twins, and their pups remain in tree branches for protection.
Residents are encouraged to help protect Hawaii’s endangered ʻōpeʻapeʻa (Hawaiian hoary bat) by keeping cats indoors, avoiding tree trimming between June 1 and September 15, and reducing light pollution by pointing lights downward and using lower wattage. The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife provides resources on the ʻOpeʻapeʻa page, including an iNaturalist recording link, a headband craft for schools, and educational materials such as a music video created by students at Kalihi Waena Elementary School, as stated by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.
