NORTH SHORE OAHU, Hawaii -- When visiting the beaches of Oahu, people often see surfers, swimmers, and, on occasion, a shark. There is something else that they might also see. Although it is extremely rare, visitors and residents alike may spot a Hawaiian monk seal — just one of the animals on the endangered species list.
Of the three known species of monk seals, only two still exist today. The first to become extinct was known as the Caribbean monk seal. The second type, which is critically endangered, is the Mediterranean monk seal. The third and last of the endangered species is the Hawaiian monk seal.
In the 1800s, hunters, whalers and fishermen slaughtered monk seals. Since the seals were placed on the endangered list, the slaughter has stopped. There are, however, new threats to the lives of the seals. Some of these include their incidental capture in fishing gear; ingestion of toxic substances from debris from fisheries, intentional kills and decreased availability of food. These threats, along with shark attacks, mobbing (females being injured and sometimes killed by the aggressive sexual behavior of some males) and a slow reproductive rate threaten what is left of the Hawaiian monk seal population.
These seals were listed as endangered in 1976 under the United States Endangered Species Act. They are also listed as endangered under the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources Red List of Threatened Species.
Between 1958 and 1996, the average beach reproductive populations of the seals had declined by 60 percent. The current population of the seals is estimated at approximately 1,500. The population continues to be on a downfall at an average of four percent per year.
The monk seal leads a solitary existence, keeping to itself — unless it is a mother, and then she is usually in the company of her pup. According to those who have sighted these seals, they seem to be far more sensitive then other animals to human intrusion into their environment. This is especially true for a nursing mother who becomes so stressed by the presence of a human that she may neglect or not provide the proper care for her pup. This may cause an increase in the death rate among seal pups.
A Hawaiian monk seal can sometimes be found resting on one of Oahu’s shores. Chances are that a seal on the beach is either resting or digesting food. Whatever the reason, because of its aversion to humans, it should not be approached.
According to guidance from agencies that oversee endangered species programs, anyone who spots a monk seal in the water or on dry land, and has injuries such as a fishing hook lodged in its mouth or body, should call (888) 256-9840. Also, to report anyone disturbing, harassing, harming or feeding monk seals, call (800) 853-1964.