Protecting Guam’s Natural Heritage

Learn how invasive species are reshaping our island and what you can do to help.

Quick Facts

Bird Extinctions

10 of Guam’s 12 native forest bird species have disappeared due to the brown tree snake[1].

Power Outages

The brown tree snake causes $1–4 million in annual damage to Guam’s electrical grid, triggering frequent outages[2].

Cycad Mortality

Asian cycad scale has killed over 90% of Guam’s native cycads since 2003, wiping out century‑old trees[3].

Economic Cost

Invasive species cost Guam more than $5 million each year in documented losses—and the true cost is higher[4].

Why It Matters

Guam’s unique ecosystems evolved in isolation for millions of years. When invasive species arrive, they often have no natural predators and can spread quickly, overwhelming native plants and animals. The brown tree snake, coconut rhinoceros beetle, and other invaders have already pushed many native species to the brink of extinction and threaten our island’s cultural heritage and economy. This website is a resource for students, teachers, and community members who want to understand the problem and be part of the solution.

Explore the Topics

Brown tree snake

Current Problems

Discover the most pressing invasive species on Guam today and how they are impacting our ecosystems and economy.

Coconut rhinoceros beetle

Species Profiles

Dive into detailed profiles of the invaders—from snakes to beetles to ants—and understand their biology and impacts.

Philippine deer

Historical Lessons

Learn from past mistakes and successes in Guam’s efforts to combat invasive species, and how these lessons inform today’s strategies.

Cycad scale damage

Future Solutions

Explore cutting‑edge technologies—from environmental DNA to AI monitoring—that offer hope for a healthier Guam.

References

  1. The Wildlife Society and Guam government reports on brown tree snake‑driven bird extinctions and infrastructure damage.
  2. Economic analyses documenting annual electrical repair costs from brown tree snake‑caused power outages.
  3. Science reports detailing the Asian cycad scale invasion and resulting mortality of Guam’s cycads since 2003.
  4. Government and academic estimates of the annual economic burden of invasive species on Guam’s economy.