Being the most remote land mass in the world makes it difficult for many invasive plants and animals to be introduced to Hawaii. Visitors are delighted know that we do not have poison ivy, oak, or sumac. No snakes, brown recluse, alligators, chiggers, and lots of other pests usually feared on the continent.
Occasionally, however, you soon get. The following are some of the pests responsible for the most common injuries in Hawaii:
The Bugs – There has been a resurgence of these pests in the last 3-5 years. Beware of hotel rooms or sofas, and if you live here, be very wary of used furniture / mattresses pick. As unpleasant and invasive as these pests are the positive side is that they are vectors of disease.
Ants – Actually, there is little ants bite here in Hawaii. The only place they have achieved little on the beach at the base of Diamondhead by small fire ant (Solenopsis germinate) attracted to our food.
Mosquitoes – Mosquitoes are not as bad as many here place on the continent. However, wetlands, especially in the green parts of the island still harbor mosquitoes. As of this writing (2010) there were no cases of West Nile virus originating in Hawaii.
Centipedes – These large (up to 9 inches) from insects use their two feet to "bite" their prey and inject venom into the wound. These bites hurt, but generally are not hazardous to health unless it bites occur in the lymph nodes or other sensitive areas. Watch for these cracks pests, including bed linen.
Bees and Wasps – Like other areas, beware of wasps and bees. The large black or gold "bumblebee" looking for carpenter bees bees are done. In my experience, the black are more aggressive, but do not bite.
Also there are some pests that are not so common that they can bite if the environment is right for them.
Toads – Hawaii giant toads (Bufo marinus) are capable to secrete a toxin from the skin and eyes. The lesions are usually produced through domestic animals mouthing a toad or deceived by idiots trying smoking toad skins or licking toads. Do not be an idiot.
Mites – One of the most interesting bits to investigate comes from mites hosted birds take up residence in attics or roofs. It's actually the nests of birds that harbor the mites then migrate to adjacent rooms or hit by windows and bite the occupants. Simply remove the nests (and birds) over time will solve the mite problem.
Fleas / Ticks – Fleas and ticks are the same here as they are on the mainland, except in the year temperate conditions, is less a season in a constant awareness of pet owners. Regular pest control, professional medicine, and keeping pets away from areas prone flea and tick control are the keys.
Blue bubbles – These little blue bubbles long (sometimes up to three feet) of tails can cause painful stings. They are usually present during summer and autumn in the windward side of the islands. Although their bites are painful, do not require medical attention, unlike the box jellyfish appearing in the leeward sides of islands. With an influx of box jellyfish, the beaches are usually closed for a day or two.
Sharks – Even Not the most common pest, stay out of murky water or brackish water. It is always a good idea to use the buddy system in the water.
Of course there are other pests here in Hawaii that can bite, but (and even many of those shown here) are not very common. Aloha!
REMOVING HUGE BLISTERS!?!?!