Hunting Culture of Lanai: Jonathan Sprague wakes up early on Lanai, a tranquil Hawaiian island where it’s always dark, to go hunting, a unique island custom. He drinks coffee while watching the sunrise over Haleakala , Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. He awaits mouflon sheep or axis deer in this tranquil place. Both creatures roam the island.
Lanai’s culture revolves around hunting, which begins at sunrise. Community hunting on this relatively undeveloped but wealthy island is more than just a pastime; it helps people and the ecosystem prosper. Lanai has three paved roads, two small groceries, and one gas station. This contrasts with Hawaii’s bustling metropolis. Lanai’s scant infrastructure makes life different for its 3,100 residents.
Lanaians seek for more than food. It protects their surroundings and guarantees food. Axis deer and mouflon sheep eat flora and hasten up erosion, harming native species and coral reefs on the island. Animals spread diseases.
Jonathan and Jay Ballesteros undertake conservation hunts because of this issue. They limit deer and sheep to prevent environmental damage. Pulama Lanai helps provide free stewardship hunts and archery permits to Lanai residents. If chosen by lottery, non-locals can participate in this vital activity.
The Lanai Archery & Shooting Range in the island’s magnificent natural scenery proves this practice has endured. Archery shooting will be taught by real hunters here. They get a greater appreciation for hunting, which sustains Lanai’s culture, through this immersion.
Hunting continues after sunset in this paradise. It’s passed down to preserve the island’s natural beauty and Hawaiian culture.
Also Read: Kombucha Tea: Unraveling the Mysteries of Health Hype or Gut Hazard
Our Reader’s Queries
What do people hunt on Lanai?
Axis deer hunting occurs from late February to mid-May, while Mouflon sheep hunting is available from late-July to late-October. Both hunting opportunities require applications and the purchase of game tags.
Which Hawaiian island has the best hunting?
Lana’i, a Hawaiian island, stands out as a truly exceptional hunting spot globally. Pineapple Brothers, in partnership with High Adventure Company, co-manages guided hunting activities on Lana’i all year long.
How did deer get to Lanai?
The Axis deer, originally from India, were gifted to King Kamehameha V and brought to the Hawaiian Islands in 1867. They were set free on Moloka´i in 1868, with some later being relocated to O`ahu before 1898 and to Läna`i in 1920. Additionally, Axis deer were introduced to Maui in 1959.
How many Axis deer are in Lanai?
Lanai’s vast 90,000 acres are home to an estimated 25,000 to 30,000 axis deer, originally from India and brought to Hawaii in 1867. With no natural predators, the deer population on the island has ballooned to 20,000 to 30,000 since their release on Lanai in 1920.