Community Volunteers Needed for Citizen Science Project: Mosquito Monitoring on West Kaua‘i

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The Kaua‘i Forest Bird Recovery Project is launching a Citizen Science Mosquito Monitoring Project and is seeking community volunteers living between Kalaheo and Kekaha to participate.

This pilot project will run from April through May 26, 2026, with an additional session planned for Fall 2026.

Why Monitor Mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes are a key factor in the transmission of avian malaria, a disease that affects native forest birds. Understanding which mosquito species are present, where they occur, and how their populations change over time is essential for informing conservation strategies and mosquito control efforts on Kaua‘i.

Community participation allows us to expand monitoring efforts across a wider geographic area than would otherwise be possible.

What Volunteers Will Do

Participants will:

  • Set up a small GAT Trap outside their home or yard
  • Use non-toxic, hay-infused water to attract mosquitoes
  • Leave the trap out for 3–4 days each week over a one-month period
  • Return collection cards to the project team in Kaumakani

The traps are safe, simple to use, and require minimal time commitment. All volunteers will receive training and guidance from project staff. For more information on the traps, please watch this video.

Project Goals

This project aims to:

  • Identify mosquito species and relative abundance
  • Map mosquito distribution across West Kaua‘i
  • Track seasonal and spatial changes in mosquito populations
  • Provide data to support mosquito control and conservation planning
  • Foster community engagement in local science and conservation

Who Can Participate

Residents living between Kalaheo and Kekaha are eligible to join.

Get Involved

If you are interested in contributing to this community science effort, please fill out the interest form.

Mahalo for your interest in supporting conservation through community-based science.