Cynthia Russ Ramsay

This is an older book, published in 1993 by National Geographic Society. Some of it may be out-of-date – for example, it could be that some of the species discussed in the book may already be extinct, sadly. I haven’t done enough research on that aspect.

Nonetheless, I think this serves as a very good introduction to Hawaii’s natural life. In fact, this book explores geology, botany, and zoology, as well as a bit of Hawaiian culture. I’m calling this an introduction because it doesn’t get too deep into the issues, but whets your appetite enough that you want to find out more.
Everywhere I went in the wild corners of Hawaii, I found that the biology was as astonishing as the beauty. The landscapes have value beyond the enchantment of a waterfall or the surreal drama of an expanse of slick rock with bits of green life taking hold. Exploring these islands intrigues the mind and stirs the imagination, for nature in Hawaii is at her most inventive and extravagant best. (p31)
The author spends time visiting and hiking throughout all of the main Hawaiian islands, meeting with scientists as well as knowledgeable residents and locals, discussing aspects of nature and island life. The book is definitely heavier on nature versus culture, which is what I was looking for. I actually wasn’t seeking this book out, but it turned up as a book about Hawaii in my library system so of course, I had to check it out.

The photography is nice as well, though sometimes it’s confusing because pictures from one island are paired with text about another island. Some photos connect with the text while others do not. But I guess that’s a minor criticism.

Whenever I read about Hawaii’s plants and animals, it’s inevitable that talk turns to their destruction. There are, unsurprisingly, clashes between the needs of the people versus the needs of the non-humans. Habitat destruction, invasive species, pollution, overfishing, etc. – you name it, Hawaii is facing the issue. The author mentions many of these issues throughout the book, and she discusses where things are getting better and where things are getting worse. Being that this was written over 20 years ago, I’m leaning towards things overall being much worse today.

To Explore:
The Hawaiian islands are made up of more than the main islands that people generally think of. There are also the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, also known as the Leeward Islands, which are a chain of islands and atolls located northwest of Kauai, that have been designated the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Essentially, the islands and surrounding waters are a protected marine wildlife reserve. These islands are located about 2,000 miles from the nearest landmass. Despite this, tons of garbage, particularly plastic, collects on these islands, severely affecting the animals that live on and around the islands. This includes the endangered monk seals, turtle species, and a species that gets a lot of attention, the Laysan albatross. There’s a film coming out soon that focuses on these birds and the tons of plastic garbage that’s found in their stomachs. It’s sad and depressing, yet seems to be beautifully made. Check out the disturbing trailer (http://www.midwayfilm.com/).

There are signs of hope, thankfully. Check out Wisdom, a 63-year-old Laysan albatross – the world’s oldest known bird in the wild! – who recently hatched a new chick! More good news in this Mother Nature Network article (http://www.mnn.com/earth-matters/animals/stories/at-63-years-old-wisdom-the-laysan-albatross-hatches-another-chick).… (mehr)