Hawaii officials are investigating a reported incident involving an endangered Hawaiian monk seal pup at Diamond Head Beach after witnesses reported two men threw a rock toward the animal while it rested on the sand.
The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources confirmed that its Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement has opened an investigation. Officials have not identified anyone involved and say it is not yet known whether the people reported in the incident were Hawaii residents or visitors.
What witnesses said happened to the Hawaiian Monk Seal.
According to multiple sources, a nearby couple said they saw two men approach the monk seal pup Sunday afternoon while it was resting on the beach. The witnesses said one of the men allegedly threw a rock toward the seal before the couple confronted them and recorded video of the encounter.
It was separately confirmed that DOCARE investigators received a report through the agency’s tip line over the weekend but that no suspects have been identified and investigators do not yet know whether those involved were residents or visitors.
The reporting to date reflects the early stage of this investigation. Witnesses have described what they say they saw, while state officials have confirmed only that an investigation is underway and have released few additional details.
Diamond Head is a busy Oahu shoreline.
Diamond Head Beach sits below one of Oahu’s most heavily visited landmarks that draws surfers, residents and visitors. Monk seals that come on shore there can quickly find themselves surrounded by people who may not understand how much space the animals need.
Encounters between people and monk seals have become more visible as the endangered animals continue to show up on some of Hawaii’s busiest beaches. Wildlife officials consistently remind beachgoers to stay well back, avoid approaching resting seals, and report any harassment rather than getting close to the animal.
Hawaiian monk seals are protected by law.
Hawaiian monk seals are protected under both state and federal law, and disturbing or harassing them can result in significant penalties. Even when a seal appears calm or inactive, approaching it can interrupt rest and alter its natural rhythms.
Beachgoers should follow any ropes, signs, or directions placed around a resting seal. People who witness possible harassment can report it to state conservation officers or NOAA rather than confronting the animal or moving closer to document what is occurring.
A similar Maui case was referred to federal authorities.
The investigation also follows another widely reported monk seal case in May of this year, when a Washington man was investigated after authorities alleged he threw a large rock at a resting monk seal on Maui. That case was referred to federal authorities for review under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
In this separate Diamond Head investigation, no charges have been announced, and state officials have also not said whether the rock reportedly thrown there struck the seal.
What have you seen when encountering Hawaii’s monk seals? Do you think enough is being done to educate people about giving these endangered animals space?
By Rob and Jeff, Beat of Hawaii.
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