When the first Polynesians landed in Hawaii around 500 A.D., they found nearly 140 species of birds and only two mammals—the monk seal and hoary bat. There were no amphibians, reptiles, bugs or mosquitoes.
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Hawaii’s reefs are filled with colorful and unique species.
With the original settlers came the addition of pigs, dogs, horses, goats, and sheep. Because of the isolation of the Islands and the natural lack of predators, much of the fauna adapted to their new environment and evolved into new species. Today, nearly 90 percent of the animals in Hawaii exist only in the Islands and nowhere else on Earth.
In the Pacific, there are some 680 sea fish species that inhabit the Hawaiian waters. There are also about 450 types of reef fish in Hawaii, 27 percent of which are endemic. Of course, there are also sea turtles, whales, dolphins, and many others that make up the oceanic community.Image may be NSFW.
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Hawaii diligently protects its eco-system and its indigenous animals through conservation efforts and visitor education programs. The vibrant, unique animal community is a beauty to behold, which only adds to the allure of the Islands with its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and clear waters.
Visitors can get up close to Hawaii’s sea life through snorkeling and scuba excursions, whale watching cruises or, on Maui, checking out the spectacular Maui Ocean Center. Eco-tours and miles of hiking trails will lead visitors to areas of jaw-dropping beauty and a fantastic array of colorful birds and plants.
Explore the hidden treasures of the Islands arranged on Maui at the Royal Lahaina Resort Activity Center and on Hawaii’s Big Island at the Royal Kona Resort Activity Center. Come and experience all of Hawaii . . . on land and in the ocean.
