It is the only native seal to Hawaii, and alongside the Hawaii Hoary bat, are the only 2 native mammals. Unfortunately, it is endangered, with just 1400 individuals living in the wild. The majority of these seals live on the outer islands, with the main island population being as low as 150.

These seals have lived on the islands for millions of years, so it is a native seal, not a local arrival. Due to the large distance to other land, these seals have been isolated from other seals for a very long time.

Please get in touch with the “list your wild place” on the home page if you work in tourism for this species. We are keen to help people know about you and what you can offer.