Show Rat Lungworm Education: In-person or virtual

Our mission is to prevent, detect, and control the establishment and spread of invasive species threats to the Big Island environment, economy, and way of life. We work island-wide protecting our native forests, communities, and agriculture from new and ongoing threats.

Our Rat Lungworm presentation can be scaffolded from K to 12 (for early grades, this is best in person, not virtual). The presentation describes the rat lungworm parasite, Angiostrongylus cantonensis, and its lifecycle in rats and snails/slugs. We cover the history of the disease and the movement of vectors, and also discuss disease prevention and protective measures (depending on grade level.)

For in-classroom presentations, there is an option for a hands-on clay modeling activity if there is enough time.