In May 2006 a NOAA Monk Seal Response Team began to form when a mom gave birth at Turtle Bay. Word spread that help was needed to watch over the mother and pup. Dozens of volunteers took daily shifts for several weeks, from morning until dark, until the pup was weaned.

After several more events, which helped to form a larger base of volunteers, a centralized database of volunteers was built to help organize future events and build capacity for rapid response throughout the Island. At the same time, volunteers came together to support the grassroots campaign seeking State designation of the Hawaiian monk seal as Hawaii’s Official State Mammal. The campaign was a success. The Governor of Hawaii also signed a proclamation designating April 19th as “Monk Seal Day in Hawaii”. This date was chosen to coincide with the first semi-annual monk seal count and the start of the pupping season.

These successes prompted the formation of a non-for profit that would take on the responsibility for recruiting, training, scheduling, and coordinating volunteers throughout Oahu. Providing gear and outreach materials for haulouts, pupping events, reported injuries, and support to volunteers during these events is crucial to the program. Funding is a part of that support through our website and outreach events.

Please join us in spreading the word, either as a volunteer or by making a donation or purchase of these items designed by our volunteers and responders. Through your donations and purchases we will be able to continue our efforts in providing widespread public awareness and rapid response to ensure a future for the ancient, endemic, and charismatic Ilio holo ika ua ua.

Mahalo nui loa!