Guidelines: How to Safely Interact with Hawaiian Monk Seals

Hawaiian Monk Seals, known to the native Hawaiian people as Ilio-holo-i-ka-uaua, which translates to “dog that runs in rough water,” are a critical part of the marine ecosystem. Listed as endangered under the ESA since 1976, these monk seals are endemic to the Hawaiian Islands archipelago and Johnston Atoll, meaning they are native to these areas and exist nowhere else on Earth. 

With their population facing threats from human encroachment and environmental changes, understanding how to responsibly share our space with them has never been more important.

To ensure safe and sustainable interactions when you come across a Hawaiian monk seal on the beach or in the ocean, consider the following guidelines:

#1: Maintain a Safe Distance

When you encounter a monk seal in its natural habitat, it's crucial to maintain a minimum distance of 50 feet (about 15 m). This isn’t just for the seal’s protection; it’s also for yours. 

Monk seals are wild animals; like all wildlife, they can be unpredictable. 

Keeping a respectful distance ensures that seals can rest, digest, and nurture their pups without stress or disturbance, which is essential for their health and well-being - and for your safety.

#2: Avoid Eye Contact

In the wild, direct eye contact can be perceived as a challenge or threat, leading to unnecessary stress for the animal. By averting our gaze, we communicate non-aggression, allowing these creatures to feel safe in our presence.

#3: Never Chase a Monk Seal

Whether out of curiosity or the desire for a closer encounter, resist the temptation of following a monk seal. 

Monk seals often perceive being followed as being chased, and the resulting stress can have a long-term impact on their health.

In some cases, the monk seal might even get defensive. Or, when a male is looking for a mating partner, encounters with humans can become dangerous for all involved.

These behaviors have been captured on videos in Kona. In this clip, a monk seal is seen biting the diver’s head. This video captures the seal nibbling on the diver’s skull. This third clip also shows the defensive nature of these creatures.

When you encounter a monk seal on the beach or in the water, it’s best to stay still or slowly back away, ensuring the animal has a clear and unobstructed path.

#4: Do not Feed Monk Seals

Feeding Hawaiian Monk Seals, or any wildlife, disrupts natural foraging behaviors and can lead to dependency on human-provided foods. 

This not only endangers the seals by encouraging them to approach boats or populated areas but can also lead to malnutrition and disease. 

The ocean provides everything monk seals need; human intervention can be harmful, no matter how well-intentioned.

Fostering Coexistence Through Education

As visitors or residents of these beautiful islands, we have the power to influence the future of their wildlife. By choosing actions that support sustainable interactions, we play a part in safeguarding these species for future generations.

At Hawaii Ocean Watch, we believe in educating the public about sustainable co-existence between humans and marine life. 

By understanding and respecting Hawaiian Monk Seals' natural behaviors and needs, we contribute to their conservation and the health of Hawaii’s marine ecosystems.