monk during an afternoon nap
Known as ʻIlio-holo-i-ka-uaua in native hawaiian, which means “dog that runs in rough waters” is a carnivorous mammal that prefers the warm waters of the hawaiian island over cold waters as most other seals do. Named for the folds of skin which often resemble that of a monks cowl they are generally out at sea, coming to shore for rest or even shelter from storms.
monk has an itch
The Hawaiian Monk Seal is one of the most critically endangered species on the planet. It is estimated that only 1200 seal still exist on the worldwide today, and sadly this number is still in decline. On a positive note, most common around the undisturbed reefs of the northwestern Hawaiian islands, and nearly completely gone from the main Hawaiian islands several years ago, they are slowly returning. The last several years have seen as many as 18 pups born off the islands each year. The survivals of these pups is still of concern though, as predation from sharks, overfishing by humans resulting in scarcity of food as well entanglement in fishing nets have hurt the survival rate.
A beautiful creature, this picture was taken off Tunnels Beach on the north shore of Kaua’i. Having also been witness to a seal resting among the rocks just to the south of Kealia beach and while ocean kayaking just north of Kapa’a, I consider myself both lucky and encouraged that maybe they can thrive with a little help from us all.
sign alerting visitors about the monk seal
Note: NOAA hires volunteers to assist with the protection of the seals as they come ashore to rest and help assure they can go about their lives undisturbed.
For more information, check out the following:
NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service
Pacific Island Regional Office Protected Resources Volunteer Opportunities
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