Sunday, March 23, 2008

Orchid: Cymbidium


Orchid


I'm not sure of the specific variety. The Flying Orchid?

Sunday, March 16, 2008

Hawaii State Flower


It is generally known the hibiscus is Hawaii's state flower. There are so many beautiful varieties to choose from. Here is the official Hawaii state flower in its bud form. Known as the ma'o-hau-hele, it is endemic and endangered in the wild. However, it is numerous in gardens and hedges with assisted seed germination.

Saturday, March 15, 2008

Mouflon Sheep: Trouble in Hawaii


A dream shot when hunting in the wild on the slopes of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on the Big Island of Hawaii. The mouflon were introduced to Hawaii as game animals. Apparently many survived the hunts by running away and eating the native plants and trees. Now they are not only game animals but wanted animals. They are destroying Hawaii's native and highly endemic ecosystems by browsing and trampling.

Friday, March 14, 2008

Closeup of Whale's Tail


A closeup of the tail from the photo below. The whale is diving to the right.

Hawaii: Sunset & Whale's Tail


My sister and niece were looking for whales off to the left. I was looking for sunset with their silhouettes. A later blowup showed the whale's tail in the center. Click on photo for larger view.

Rolling Down Mauna Kea


Just for fun, moonset and sunrise.

Hawaii: Green Sea Turtle in Camo


Night feeding at Honaunau, Hawaii's Place of Refuge.

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Hawaiian Hawk: Buteo Solitarius


Sitting in a native Ohia tree, this hawk or I'o (ee-oh, similar to the bird's call) is checking out some chickens in my yard.