HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Officials are employing drone technology to address the growing population of coqui frogs in the Koolau Mountains on Oahu.
The state Department of Land and Natural Resources reports that these noisy invasive pests have been discovered at higher elevations than previously thought, with an estimated 13 acres of forest infested below the summit of the Kuliouou Ridge Trail.
Due to the steep terrain, crews are unable to access the area on foot. Instead, drones will be used to apply a non-toxic citric food additive to help eradicate the frogs.
Jonathan Ho from the Department of Agriculture stated, “We’re not quite sure how the frogs got there because the area is so remote, but our goal is to eradicate them.”
Coqui frogs have not yet been detected at lower elevations on the leeward side of the Koolau Mountains.
Residents and hikers are encouraged to listen for the frogs and report any sightings by calling 808-643-PEST or visiting 643pest.org.