#ResponsibleAdventures Week 2

Can you remember the last time you encountered a native plant or animal during your travels? Maybe it was a vibrant flower that caught your eye, or a curious animal that crossed your path. Whether it was a passing encounter or a lasting memory, we invite you to share your story with us and the world.

The natural world is rich with inspiration and discovery, and every plant and animal has a story to tell. Post a picture and a short story about your favorite native plant or animal you encountered during your travels. Share your experience with others who are passionate about preserving and protecting our natural resources, and learn more about the amazing organizations making a difference in conservation.

This week, we are shining the spotlight on the Big Island Farm Sanctuary in Naalehu. This incredible sanctuary is providing a safe haven for animals that are commonly overlooked or exploited in the food and agriculture industry. The sanctuary is home to cows, pigs, goats, chickens, and more, all living in a peaceful environment where they are valued as individuals.

We believe in the power of community and that together, we can make a difference in the world. By sharing our stories and supporting organizations like the Big Island Farm Sanctuary, we can make a positive impact on the planet and all its inhabitants.

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore, share your stories, and join us in celebrating the beauty and wonder of the natural world.

My Encounter with the Monarch Butterfly

One of my favorite encounters with a native plant or animal was with the monarch butterfly. I was on a coffee farm in Kailua Kona, and I came across a patch of milkweed plants. As I was admiring the vibrant flowers, I noticed a swarm of monarch butterflies fluttering around them.

I sat down to watch them and soon realized that the butterflies were laying eggs on the milkweed plants. I had read about the symbiotic relationship between monarchs and milkweed, but seeing it in action was a truly incredible experience.

Over the next few weeks, I returned to visit the milkweed patch and watched as the caterpillars emerged from the eggs and began munching on the leaves. Eventually, they formed chrysalises, and I had the privilege of watching several monarchs emerge from their cocoons and take flight.

The monarch butterfly is a symbol of strength, resilience, and transformation. They embark on an epic migration journey each year, traveling thousands of miles to their overwintering grounds in Mexico. However, their populations are declining due to habitat loss and climate change.

By planting milkweed in our gardens and supporting organizations working to preserve their habitat, we can help ensure that these beautiful creatures continue to thrive.

Weekly Community Company Spotlight: Big Island Farm Sanctuary

This week, we are excited to feature the Big Island Farm Sanctuary in Naalehu. This incredible organization is working to create a more compassionate and sustainable world by providing a safe haven for farm animals.

The sanctuary is home to over 130 animals, including cows, pigs, goats, sheep, and chickens. Each animal at the sanctuary is treated with love and respect, and they are given the opportunity to live out their lives in peace.

One of the unique aspects of the Big Island Farm Sanctuary is their focus on rescuing animals that are commonly overlooked or exploited in the food and agriculture industry. Many of the animals at the sanctuary come from situations of neglect or abuse, and the team at the sanctuary works tirelessly to give them the care and respect they deserve.

In addition to providing a sanctuary for animals, the Big Island Farm Sanctuary is also committed to education and outreach. They offer tours and workshops to educate the public about the benefits of plant-based living and the importance of animal welfare.

We are inspired by the work that the Big Island Farm Sanctuary is doing to create a more just and compassionate world for animals. If you’re looking for a way to get involved, consider supporting their mission or volunteering at the sanctuary.

Our planet is home to an incredible diversity of plant and animal life, each with its unique story and significance. By sharing our encounters with native plants and animals, we can deepen our connection to the natural world and inspire others to appreciate and protect it.

We hope you’ll join us in sharing your stories and supporting organizations like the Big Island Farm Sanctuary that are working to create a more just and sustainable world. Together, we can make a positive impact on the planet and all its inhabitants.