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Family Monachidae

HAWAII

Monachus schauinslandi  

Cargo Pier, Midway Atoll

 

Diamond Head, Oahu

Cargo Pier, Midway Atoll

 

South Reef, Kure Atoll

Diamond Head, Oahu

 

Southeast Island, Pearl & Hermes Reef

Seaplane Ramp, Midway Atoll

Rusty Bucket, Midway Atoll

 HAWAIIAN MONK SEAL     �ilioholoikauaua

Critically endangered with 1200 individuals remaining, mostly around the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands.  A few visit beaches around the Main Hawaiian Islands where they haul-out to rest or give birth and nurse their pup.  Federal law dictates a minimum separation of 100 feet from any monk seal since they are easily alarmed.  If an animal approaches you in the water maintain a safe distance since they may bite.  Feeds upon fish and lobster to depths exceeding 1000 feet.  Attains a length of 8 feet, weight of 600 pounds, and maximum age of about 30 years.  Endemic to Hawai'i.

More information about Monk Seals