On May 1, 2024, Kaiwi (RK96) gave birth to a new pup at Kaimana Beach, marking her third offspring in that area. Kilali Gibson, Oʻahu Marine Wildlife Response Coordinator at NOAA Fisheries, expressed excitement, stating, “We’re so excited for the birth of another pup.”
In response to the birth, staff and volunteers from Hawai‘i Marine Animal Response (HMAR) took immediate action to ensure the safety of the seals and the public. Jon Gelman, President of HMAR, emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe distance, saying, “Once the pup becomes more active, and begins going into the ocean with its mother, we will constantly be working with our partners, as necessary, to modify our support plan to keep people and animals safely apart.”
Chief Jason Redulla of the DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) highlighted the measures being taken to protect both the seals and beachgoers, stating, “Last year the safety cordon on the beach basically stretched from where the seals were resting to the opposite side of the beach.”
Ocean Safety Acting Chief Kurt Lager urged visitors to heed lifeguard announcements for their safety, emphasizing, “We encourage anyone who frequents Kaimana or is visiting for the first time, to pay close attention to the lifeguards’ announcements. Lifeguards will be warning swimmers of hazards in the ocean.”
Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation Director Laura H. Thielen reflected on the significance of witnessing wildlife in their natural habitat from a safe distance, stating, “We are encouraged to see our wildlife utilizing these public beaches as part of their natural life cycle, and for the public to have the opportunity to witness nature at its finest from a safe distance.”
The birth of the monk seal pup at Kaimana Beach serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human recreation and wildlife stewardship. It is crucial for the public to respect the safety boundaries in place to protect these endangered species and ensure their continued survival.