The Blackburn's Sphinx Moth is one of Hawai‘i's largest native insects and a federally endangered species. Pulama Lanai photo

The Pulama Lanai conservation team reports having recently documented several rare native species that haven’t been seen on Lanai for decades, including the Blackburn’s sphinx moth, which was believed to be extinct in Hawaii.

According to the organization, the discoveries highlight the ecological importance of Lanai’s landscapes and the role stewardship can play in protecting the island’s natural resources.

The group said it has been working in partnership with residents and conservation organizations on Lanai, and a resident discovered the caterpillar. The adult moth was later released into suitable habitat on the windward side of the island.

The Blackburn’s Sphinx Moth as a caterpillar. Pulama Lanai photo

The sighting marked only the second documented record of the Blackburn’s sphinx moth on Lanai with the previous record dating back to 2009.

In addition to the moth, rare native plants were documented during surveys in October in Maunalei Valley and surrounding gulches.

The surveys were led by the Maui Plant Extinction Prevention Program in partnership with Pulama Lanai, using both on-the-ground exploration and drones to access steep cliffs and remote terrain.

“With the addition of drones to our toolkit, PEPP has been able to rediscover lost species, find new populations of rare taxa and even make collections from these remote plants using specialized drones,” said Zach Pezzillo, coordinator at Maui Nui Plant Extinction Prevention Program. “On Lanai, while it is one of the smaller islands, there is still lots of habitat to explore and hopefully more rare species to find.”

Five rare species were identified, several of which — Embelia pacifica, Peperomia tetraphylla, Schiedea menziesii and Cyperus phleiodes — had not been recorded on Lanai since as far back as the 1930s.

Some species were found clinging to vertical rock faces and narrow shelves, areas that have remained relatively protected from grazing pressure and human disturbance.

The researchers said the rediscovery of Schiedea menziesii, one of Hawaii’s rarest native plants, was of particular significance because it was previously known only from West Maui and a single valley on Lanai.

Follow-up surveys in neighboring ravines revealed dozens of additional plants, suggesting the species has persisted quietly in the landscape for decades.

“DLNR is grateful for our partnership with Pulama Lanai that is helping our Plant Extinction Prevention Program preserve Hawai’i’s rarest plants through teamwork,” said Matthew Keir, a state botanist with the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Forestry and Wildlife.

“These discoveries are a reminder that Lanai still holds incredible natural resources, even in places that are difficult to reach, and that careful stewardship, community engagement and strong partnerships can make a meaningful difference,” added Rachel Sprague, director of conservation at Pulama Lanai. “Protecting these species is part of our overall commitment to caring for the island in a way that supports both ecological health and a thriving community.”