HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0140.088 2014-2016February 17, 2015
COUNTY CLERK
COUNTY OF HAWAII
RECEIVED ,r /
Time 1'30 PH BY
Date /7/ AS
West Hawaii Humane Society
P.O. Box 1208
Kailua—Kona, Hawaii 96745
www.WestHawaiiHumaneSocietV.or
TO: Hawaii County Council
Margaret Wille Chair and Presiding Officer and Council members
RE: Bill 318 - Amends Chapter 4 relating to the treatment of Aquarium Life
West Hawaii Humane Society supports Bill 318 100 percent. The current indifference to the plight of
these animals is absolutely criminal. Thousands of these animals suffer and die because of the current
inhumane practices. To starve, cut the fins and spines and pierce the swim bladder of these fish is
unconscionable. A huge percentage of these harvested fish die while being transported to their final
destination. There is a critical need to reform trade practices.
Starving and cruelly transporting any animal is illegal under HRS 711-1109. This bill is a reminder that
fish qualify as animals and also need to be protected. No one would permit dogs and cats to be treated
in this manner.
Hawaii should be a leader and set a standard for other counties, states and countries to follow. As a
civilized people and as the home of the Aloha spirit we are so proud of, how can we do less. This is what
our community wants!!! This is a grassroots movement not just animal welfare organizations.
Individuals in our community have approached those of us in the Humane Societies and have asked to
help them to do something about this outrage.
We ask that you please pass Bill 318.
Ginger Towle - President
Comm. N . % qo' $�
Ref. To: W C S
Ref, nate FEB 17 201
Up to 40% of Hawaii's reef wildlife taken by the aquarium trade dies before reaching the
hobbyist. Injury, disease and early death results from trade practices shown below.
Most of the remaining animals will die within the year, unable to survive under the care of
beginner fish keepers, the majority of whom quit the hobby within a near of starting.
Netted Hinalea lauwili -found only in Hawaii.
Handling & exposing to air without need. This
Cleaner Wrasse, found only in Hawaii, should
never be taken for the hobby - it dies quickly
without its food source: parasites on other
fish. This fish will now die within weeks.
Fish are starved from 2 -10 days before being
bagged & shipped. Stress & starvation are
major causes of early death.
Getting ready to vent I pierce the swim bladde
Exposing to air and cutting fins & spines without
need. This harmful practice is used to avoid the
higher costs of shipping in sturdier, layered bags.
Another dead fish in a tank with a replacement
floating in the bag (upper right corner).