Hawaii, globally recognized for its distinct ecology and biodiversity, uses official state symbols to reflect its unique natural resources and cultural heritage. The state insect designation points to a native species of particular ecological and cultural importance. This choice symbolizes both the natural history and the monarchy of the archipelago.
Identifying the Official State Insect
The official state insect of Hawaii is the Kamehameha butterfly, known in Hawaiian as the pulelehua. This species is one of only two butterfly species found exclusively in Hawaii. Its scientific name, Vanessa tameamea, honors the royal family of the island chain. The selection of this endemic butterfly celebrates native wildlife and unites natural history with cultural reverence.
Unique Biology and Endemic Status
The Kamehameha butterfly is a medium-sized species distinguished by its striking reddish-orange and black wings, often featuring white or yellow markings. Its wingspan typically ranges between 2.5 to 3 inches, making it easily noticeable. As an endemic species, its existence is naturally restricted solely to the Hawaiian Islands. It can be found across all the main islands, though populations are increasingly restricted to higher-elevation wet and mesic forests and gulches.
The life cycle of the Vanessa tameamea is intimately tied to native Hawaiian flora, particularly plants in the nettle family (Urticaceae). The caterpillars feed exclusively on the leaves of these native nettles, with the māmaki (Pipturus albidus) being the most common and preferred host plant. Adult butterflies primarily sustain themselves by drinking tree sap, particularly from native koa trees, as well as flower nectar. The exclusive dependency on these specific native plants makes the butterfly highly vulnerable to habitat loss and the spread of non-native species. Declining populations serve as an indicator of the health of Hawaii’s native forests.
The Designation Process
The formal designation of the Kamehameha butterfly as the state insect occurred in 2009, stemming from an educational initiative. A group of fifth-grade students from Pearl Ridge Elementary School on Oʻahu spearheaded the campaign. Their teacher challenged them to research and propose a species, providing a hands-on lesson in the legislative process. The students chose the pulelehua over other contenders, believing the butterfly better represented the islands and would encourage conservation efforts.
The students’ proposal, formally introduced as House Bill 135, cited multiple reasons for the butterfly’s suitability. They emphasized its endemic status and its namesake, King Kamehameha, who unified the islands, suggesting the butterfly could symbolize unity. The students also pointed to the butterfly’s distinctive reddish-orange and black wing colors, which resemble the colors traditionally associated with Hawaiian royalty. The bill was approved by the legislature and signed into law by Governor Linda Lingle in April 2009. This successful student-led effort established a state symbol and raised public awareness about the insect’s need for protection.