One of the world's most endangered marine mammals calls Maui home
Fewer than 1,400 Hawaiian monk seals remain in the wild. Learn how to safely observe these incredible animals and what to do if you encounter one.
The Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi) is one of the most critically endangered marine mammals on Earth. With a population of roughly 1,400 individuals, every single seal matters. These animals are endemic to Hawaii, meaning they exist nowhere else on the planet. Their Hawaiian name, 'ilio-holo-i-ka-uaua, translates beautifully to "dog that runs in rough water."
Monk seals frequently haul out on Maui's beaches to rest, warm up, molt, or nurse their pups. This is completely normal and healthy behavior. A seal on the beach is NOT stranded or in distress -- it is doing exactly what it needs to do. The single most important thing you can do is give it space.
Hawaiian monk seals are protected under the Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Disturbing, touching, or harassing a monk seal is a federal crime punishable by fines up to $50,000 and up to five years in prison.
Federal law requires a minimum distance of 50 feet (about the length of a school bus) from any Hawaiian monk seal. This applies on the beach and in the water. If a monk seal approaches you while you are swimming or snorkeling, calmly and slowly move away. Do not attempt to swim toward, touch, or feed a monk seal under any circumstances.
When you spot a monk seal on the beach, stop walking, keep your distance, and observe quietly. Prevent children and pets from approaching. If the seal is roped off by volunteers or NOAA responders, stay behind the barriers. These dedicated volunteers monitor seals during vulnerable periods like pupping and molting.
Photography is fine from a distance. Use your phone's zoom or bring a telephoto lens. Never use flash photography, and never approach closer to get a better shot. The seal's safety is infinitely more important than any photograph.
Stay at least 50 feet away at all times. Keep dogs leashed and away from the seal. Do not feed the seal or leave food nearby. Speak quietly and avoid sudden movements. If the seal appears injured, entangled, or if a mother and pup are present, call the NOAA Marine Wildlife Hotline at 1-888-256-9840.
If you are already on a beach and a monk seal hauls out near you, slowly and calmly gather your belongings and move away to the required distance. Do not panic or run, as sudden movement can stress the animal. Monk seals choose beaches for a reason -- they need rest and safety, and your cooperation literally helps save this species.
Monk seal mothers are extremely protective of their pups. A nursing mother will aggressively defend her young if she feels threatened. If you see a mother-pup pair, give them the widest berth possible and alert other beachgoers to their presence.