Just a few years ago, inspectors were working at the airport nearly 24 hours a day.

They met every plane to look at cargo and passengers to make sure invasive species didn't get in.

But now, only daytime inspections take place, after the staff was cut in half.

"We are far short.  At the airport we used to have over 20 inspectors. We now have 10 or so.  We need to beef it up," said Okada.

This is the third time this year dangerous invasive species were caught sneaking into the islands.  Just last month, it was a dengue fever-carrying mosquito.

There are only 60 inspectors statewide and they cover all the airports and ports.  But, there used to be 95.  Okada is concerned without more inspectors, more threats just like the little brown bat will reach Hawaii.

"We're hoping to get our inspectors back in force to the full numbers," said Okada.

Instead of getting more employees, the Department of Agriculture is now fighting to keep the ones it has.

Funding for about two dozen invasive species experts comes from special funds and has to be passed by lawmakers this legislative session.

Until additional funds are secured, Okada said she can't hire any more inspectors.