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Meet The 10 Most Popular Animals Of Hawaii

Meerkat mob
Portrait of meerkat family. Image by nathan726 via Flickr

Ever wondered what the most popular animals are in all of Hawaii? Now is your time to have the answer revealed. I have been pretty curious myself. So let’s swim right in together!

#1 Hawaiian Monk Seal (Monachus schauinslandi)

The Hawaiian Monk Seal, also known as ‘Ilio-holo-i-ka-uaua in Hawaiian, is one of the rarest marine mammals in the world, with a population of fewer than 1,400 individuals, making it critically endangered. Image via Depositphotos

The Hawaiian Monk Seal is one of the rarest marine mammals in the world and is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. Known for its laid-back demeanor and unique appearance, it is a beloved symbol of Hawaii’s marine ecosystem.

#2 Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)

Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle
The Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle, known as Honu in Hawaiian, is revered in Hawaiian culture as a symbol of good luck, longevity, and protection, and it is considered a guardian spirit (aumakua) by some native Hawaiians. Image by Jeremy Bishop via Unsplash

Also known as Honu in Hawaiian, the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle is a revered symbol of longevity, good luck, and protection in Hawaiian culture. These gentle creatures are commonly spotted in the waters around the Hawaiian Islands.

#3 Hawaiian Spinner Dolphin (Stenella longirostris)

Spinner Dolphins
A family of Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins having fun underwater. Image via Depositphotos

The Hawaiian Spinner Dolphin is known for its acrobatic spinning leaps out of the water, especially during their resting periods in sheltered bays and coves along the Hawaiian coastlines.

#4 Nene (Branta sandvicensis)

Hawaiian goose
Portrait of a nene (branta sandvicensis). Image by Tom Meaker via Depositphotos

The Nene, or Hawaiian Goose, is the state bird of Hawaii and is endemic to the islands. It is known for its distinctive appearance and honking call. Once critically endangered, conservation efforts have helped increase Nene populations.

#5 Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)

Massive humpback whale breaching. Image by GUDKOVANDREY on Depositphotos.

While not exclusive to Hawaii, Humpback Whales migrate to Hawaiian waters during the winter months for breeding and calving. Their spectacular displays of breaching and tail slapping make them a popular attraction for whale watching tours.

#6 Hawaiian Hoary Bat (Lasiurus cinereus semotus)

Hawaiian hoary bat
Hawaiian hoary bat. Image by Sally Dixon via Unsplash

The Hawaiian Hoary Bat is Hawaii’s only native land mammal and is unique among bat species for its silver-gray fur. It is nocturnal and feeds primarily on insects, making it an essential part of Hawaii’s ecosystem.

#7 Hawaiian Hawk (Buteo solitarius)

Hawaiian Hawk
Hawaiian Hawk sitting regal in a tree. Image by Tyler Rutherford via Unsplash

Also known as ‘Io in Hawaiian, the Hawaiian Hawk is a bird of prey endemic to Hawaii. Revered in Hawaiian culture as a symbol of royalty and strength, it is recognized as the official state bird of Hawaii.

#8 Hawaiian Bobtail Squid (Euprymna scolopes)

Hawaiian bobtail squid. Image by Margaret McFall-Ngai via Science News

The Hawaiian Bobtail Squid is a small, nocturnal cephalopod known for its symbiotic relationship with bioluminescent bacteria, which it uses for camouflage and communication. It is a fascinating and unique inhabitant of Hawaiian waters.

#9 Hawaiian Happy Face Spider (Theridion grallator)

Hawaiian Happy Face Spider
Hawaiian Happy Face Spider. Image by RealityImages via Depositphotos

The Hawaiian Happy Face Spider is a tiny arachnid endemic to Hawaii known for its distinctive yellow markings on its abdomen, which resemble a smiling face. It is a popular subject for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers.

#10 Mongoose (Herpestes javanicus)

Yellow Mongoose hunting for prey on short green grass
A mongoose staring us right in the face. Image by A Oosthuizen via Depositphotos

Finally, the last on our list of most popular animals of Hawaii. While not native to Hawaii, the mongoose was introduced to the islands in the late 19th century to control rat populations in sugar cane fields. Despite their negative impact on native species, mongooses are now a common sight in Hawaii and are often seen scavenging for food in urban areas.

Humpback whale in all its glory. Illustration by Alana Theron with DALL-E

In conclusion, these are the most googled animals in Texas. Furthermore, I have never seen a armadillo before, it would be an incredible sighting! I think I may need to visit Texas soon to see one for myself! If you think there should’ve been another more googled animal in the top 10, please feel free to let us know in the comments. Can’t wait to hear from you!

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