Hawaiian Monk Seals: Natures Living Fossils
Virtually unchanged for 15 million years, Hawaiian monk seals are considered nature's living fossils. Their tropical seal cousins, the Caribbean and Mediterranean monk seals, have disappeared in the past century. Hawaiian monk seals number about 1200 with less than 40 within the main islands. Ten to 12 monk seals reside around Kauai. If you happen to observe one of these animals, consider it a rare treat as they are extremely endangered.
Unlike cold-water seals and sea lions, monk seals do not congregate in large numbers. Individually, they will haul themselves out of the water for much needed rest after hunting throughout the night. From the ocean, mature male seals will patrol sections of the beach in search of females. Mating then occurs in the water. For many years, seals have given birth on the more remote Hawaiian Islands. However, Kauai recently celebrated the births of two seal pups born on two different beaches in June and July, 2000.
Young pups and their mothers are vulnerable for the first six weeks of nursing. During this time, the mother doesn't eat and will lose up to 200 pounds. The pup's newborn weight is 30 pounds, increasing to 200 pounds by the time it is weaned.
After the pup is weaned, the mother returns to the ocean to replenish herself, diving up to 400 feet below the surface for food. Her pup remains in its beach birth area for another two weeks. During this time the pup teaches itself to feed on fish, lobster, octopus and eels.
In inhabited areas, there is the constant threat that humans or dogs will frighten the mother. Mother seals have been known to abandon their pups in such cases. However, the recent Kauai births were protected due to an immediate response by a government and volunteer network set up by Don Heacock, aquatic biologist with the State Department of Land and Natural Resources. Although they were born on our popular and highly populated south side beaches, the seal pups were able to nurse without disturbance. National Marine Fisheries' monk seal biologist Brad Ryon flew in to educate volunteers and visitors, and he organized a 24-hour seal watch.
There is hope for this endangered marine species not only because of the two recent births, but also because of efforts being made to educate people regarding proper behavior in the vicinity of monk seals. Please read the rules and behaviors in the column to the left of this article. In following those suggestions, you will be helping the Hawaiian monk seal thrive and survive.
So, if you see a sleeping monk seal on the beach, keep your distance, but savor the experience, knowing that you are in the presence of one of nature's oldest creatures.
