Hawaiian Monk Seals

These are two Hawaiian Monk Seals resting along the shoreline.  I took this photo on one of my trips to Kaena State Park.

Monk Seals are an endangered species.  Of the few left in the world, here are two resting at the edge of the world.

The Hawaiian Monk Seal is one of the rarest marine mammals on Earth. There are only about 1,600 left. Most people visiting Hawaii never realize they are sharing these islands with a species fighting for survival.

What makes them especially vulnerable is also what makes them so loved. Monk seals often appear calm around people. Curious. Peaceful and trusting.

At the end of the day, they are wild animals, and they need space.  Space we have taken over.

Sadly, Hawaii recently saw another reminder of this after a well-known monk seal on Maui named Lani was reportedly harassed by a visitor. The story spread quickly across the islands because many locals see these animals as almost like neighbors. Seeing harm come to one feels personal.

As a reminder, leave them space. Let them rest. Let them remain wild.

Not every beautiful thing needs to be approached, touched, chased, or turned into a closer photo unless you get a big lens.  Trust me, it's worth the cost of a big lens to photograph wildlife without disturbing them.  

Sometimes, respect is simply distance without bothering the animal.  If you get in, get your photo, and the animal never notices, you are doing it right.  Unfortunately, most photographers are mobile phone phototogs who keep pushing in closer and closer until the animal has to move or get disturbed from its routine.

And honestly, watching them quietly exist out there on the shoreline is enough.