Rising Tide Images
Seal Pup
A five-day old Hawaiian monk seal pup explores the shoreline a few feet from the safety of its mother. It is the tenth pup born on Oahu in 2024. Endemic to Hawaii, this species of monk seal was established in the archipelago millions of years before the present human populated main volcanic islands emerged above sea level. The original seal-occupied islands have since receded to coral atolls and are now part of Papahānaumokuākea. A recent survey by NOAA estimated a small, but encouraging, population increase to 1,570 individuals throughout the Hawaiian archipelago. However, Hawaiian monk seals remain endangered and among the rarest of marine mammals. The Hawaiian name for a monk seal is ilio holo i ka uaua meaning dog that runs in rough seas. This young one appeared very puppy-like.
Seal Pup
A five-day old Hawaiian monk seal pup explores the shoreline a few feet from the safety of its mother. It is the tenth pup born on Oahu in 2024. Endemic to Hawaii, this species of monk seal was established in the archipelago millions of years before the present human populated main volcanic islands emerged above sea level. The original seal-occupied islands have since receded to coral atolls and are now part of Papahānaumokuākea. A recent survey by NOAA estimated a small, but encouraging, population increase to 1,570 individuals throughout the Hawaiian archipelago. However, Hawaiian monk seals remain endangered and among the rarest of marine mammals. The Hawaiian name for a monk seal is ilio holo i ka uaua meaning dog that runs in rough seas. This young one appeared very puppy-like.