Written by: Dennis O’Donnell

If the Humpback whale is Maui's favorite visitor, then the Hawaiian “Honu” Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas), could be considered the most popular native. This beloved and iconic species has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. However, despite their popularity, these gentle creatures are facing numerous threats to their survival, including habitat destruction, pollution, and hunting.

The Honu is a fascinating and ancient species that has been swimming in the oceans for more than 100 million years. These turtles have a distinctive heart-shaped shell and can grow up to 4 feet in length and weigh over 300 pounds. They are herbivores and feed on seagrass and algae, which gives their fat a green tint, and is where they get their name.

Most sea turtles live an average of 50 years, but the green sea turtle has the greatest longevity at 80+ years. They reach sexual maturity between 25-35 years of age, males mating every year and females migrating back to their place of birth and mating every 2-5 years.

The Honu has significant cultural and spiritual significance as a guide ('aumakua) for the Hawaiian people, and in mythology, they are believed to be a symbol of good luck, protection, and long life.

In 1978, the Hawaiian green sea turtle was added to The US Federal Endangered Species List as “threatened”, but despite their protected status, they are still considered endangered. The main threat to the Honu is habitat destruction, which is caused by coastal development, pollution, and climate change. The turtles rely on sandy beaches to lay their eggs, and these beaches are increasingly disappearing due to rising sea levels and erosion.

Another significant hazard to the Honu is hunting, which has been a tradition in Hawaiian culture for centuries. While once legal and allowed for subsistence purposes, it is now illegal, and penalties for harming these creatures can result in hefty fines and even imprisonment. However, despite these laws, illegal poaching still occurs, which puts the survival of the Honu at risk.

Fortunately, there are efforts underway to protect and conserve the Hawaiian green sea turtle. The Maui Ocean Center, for example, has an active Honu rehabilitation program that rescues injured turtles and works to nurse them back to health. The center also has a team of marine biologists who monitor the population and conduct research on the it’s behavior, habitat, and diet.

The community also plays a vital role in helping the turtles. Organizations such as the Hawaii Wildlife Fund and the Pacific Whale Foundation conduct beach cleanups and educational programs to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the Honu and their habitat.

Visitors and residents can both do our part in helping to conserve the Honu. When snorkeling or swimming near the turtles, it's important to keep a safe distance of at least 10 feet and avoid touching or disturbing them. It's also essential to dispose of any trash properly and avoid using single-use plastics, which can harm marine life.

With continued respect, appreciation, and protection, the Honu will continue to thrive, survive, and provide much visual enjoyment for those that are fortunate to see them in their natural environment. 

Mahalo and Aloha!

Dennis O’Donnell

Romvari Realty

dennis@romvari.net

808-280-6596