Protected Resources Division

sleeping Hawaiian monk seal swimming Hawaiian monk seal

The Hawaiian Monk Seal

Contact Us
To report monk seal sightings:
220-7802 (Oahu) or email pifsc.monksealsighting@noaa.gov

To report stranded / entangled marine mammals:
1-888-256-9840

For More Information:
monksealinfo@noaa.gov
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Scientific name: Monachus schauinslandi
Hawaiian name: ilio-holo-i-ka-uaua or na mea hulu

The Hawaiian monk seal (Monachus schauinslandi) is one of the most endangered marine mammals in the world and their population is declining. Monk seals are endemic to Hawaii, meaning they are native and are not found anywhere else in the world. Hawaiian monk seals are protected under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), and state law in Hawaii.

Learn About Monk Seals

Find out about monk seal natural history, physical description and more.

Population Size and Threats

How many monk seals are there? What are threats to their recovery?

Seen a Monk Seal?

Report a seal sighting, learn about legal protections, how to view monk seals, and what to do if you see a monk seal while fishing.

How Does NOAA Help?

Learn about NOAA Fisheries management and research to help recover monk seals.

What Can I Do?

How you can help monk seals or volunteer for response and outreach.

More Information

Links to other monk seals on the web