The number of Hawaiian monk seals born in the main Hawaiian Islands is seeing an increase. However, this rise leads to greater chances of interaction between the pups and their mothers with people. In 2024, there were 34 pups born, and this year has already seen the birth of three.
Monk seal mothers nurture their pups for a period of five to seven weeks post-birth. During this period, the mothers can be protective and may respond aggressively if approached too closely. The risk of injury heightens if the seals are born on busy and well-frequented beaches.
Brian Neilson, administrator of the DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources, stated, "Monk seals give birth year-round, but March through August is when we see the majority of these adorable—and endangered—pups make their debut." Multiple organizations including the DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement, NOAA, and various city and county agencies collaborate to safeguard the seals and address potential areas of human-seal encounters.
Neilson further explained, "We appreciate everyone’s understanding and support during these crucial nursing periods. Let’s admire from afar to keep everyone safe." Observers are advised to keep a distance of at least 150 feet from the mother-pup pairs, especially in the water, and to respect any temporary fences and signs around them.
For the survival and well-being of the pups, it is crucial that they are not exposed to or conditioned by human interaction, particularly once they start foraging independently after being weaned by their mothers.