DOFAW field staffers plan to use drone technology to apply citric treatment at higher elevations. Aloha ʻĀina Drones, a Hilo-based operation specializing in agricultural and conservation drone applications, is contracted for the work.
In Hawaiʻi, coqui frogs reach densities much higher than in their native Puerto Rico. Their loud calls disturb residents, and the invasive frogs significantly impact local insect communities. Coqui are now widespread on Hawaiʻi Island and are targets of control efforts on Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, and Maui.
To date, the frogs have not been detected at lower elevations on the leeward side of the Koʻolau Mountains. Kuliʻouʻou residents and hikers on the Kuliʻouʻou Ridge Trail and Kuliʻouʻou Valley Trail are encouraged to listen for frog calls. Pest reports can be submitted online at 643pest.org or by calling the 643-PEST telephone hotline. Staff from DOFAW and OISC will be present at the October 2, 2024 meeting of the Kuliʻouʻou Neighborhood Board to share information and answer questions about this project.