Drone-based Mosquito Release for Avian Malaria Control in Hawaii

Testing

A project using drones to release thousands of lab-reared, non-biting male mosquitoes carrying a bacteria strain that interferes with reproduction. The goal is to reduce the invasive mosquito population that spreads avian malaria, thereby protecting native Hawaiian birds such as honeycreepers. The mosquitoes are released inside biodegradable pods from drones, which provide a safer and more flexible deployment method compared to helicopters.