The Mystery Behind Dropping Thousands of Mosquitoes from Drones over Hawaii
In the skies of Hawaii, a unique operation is taking place: drones are releasing biodegradable capsules filled with mosquitoes over the mountainous forests. However, this is not an invasion, but rather a rescue mission. The objective is to protect critically endangered endemic bird species like the kiwikiu and ʻakekeʻe, which are facing extinction due to avian malaria.
A Threat that Came from the Sea… and is Climbing Up the Mountain
Avian malaria, transmitted by mosquitoes, has had a devastating impact on Hawaii’s native bird populations. These birds, many of which had never encountered mosquitoes until their arrival in 1826, are now facing extinction. Over 30 species of Hawaiian honeycreepers have already vanished.
For years, the surviving birds sought refuge in the highlands where mosquitoes were scarce. However, with rising temperatures due to global warming, mosquitoes are now able to reach these previously safe areas. The birds have nowhere else to escape, and they are now trapped.
Mosquitoes vs. Mosquitoes: the incompatible insect technique
Instead of resorting to harmful pesticides that could harm native species, scientists have turned to an innovative method called the Incompatible Insect Technique (IIT). This technique involves releasing male mosquitoes infected with a bacteria called Wolbachia, which renders them unable to reproduce. When these mosquitoes mate with wild females, the eggs do not hatch.
Millions of these specially bred mosquitoes are being produced in California laboratories. Since 2024, they have been released via helicopters over the forests of Maui and Kauai, with drones being used since June 2025. This method not only reduces costs and emissions but also allows for operations in challenging climates.
Currently, half a million mosquitoes are being released weekly on each island in an effort to significantly reduce the population of malaria-transmitting mosquitoes and give the bird species a chance to recover.
A Solution for other Parts of the World?
While mosquitoes are considered invasive in Hawaii and do not serve a significant ecological purpose, the success of this project could pave the way for similar initiatives in other regions. However, scientists caution that in areas where mosquitoes are a natural part of the ecosystem, eliminating them in large numbers could have unforeseen consequences.
This campaign marks the first global application of the IIT technique for conservation purposes. Initial results could be visible within a year. If successful, this effort will not only save species on the brink of extinction but also demonstrate how biotechnology and ecology can work together to reverse the decline of biodiversity.
