New Plan to Save Hawaiian Seals

The U.S. government is revamping efforts to save the Hawaiian Monk seal.

The Hawaiian monk seal is one of the world’s most endangered species, and officials hope the new recovery plan helps to save the species from extinction.

Biologists estimate that the monk seal population of 1,200, which is declining at a rate of 4 percent a year, will fall below 1,000 within the next three to four years.

The NOAA Fisheries Service signed a new Hawaiian Monk Seal recovery plan at a ceremony held yesterday at the Waikiki Aquarium. This is the first time changes have been made to the plan since it was drafted in 1983.

The new plan addresses the unique problems that threaten the seals, such as marine debris that seals can get entangled in. The plan also details the management and research needed to give monk seals the best chance for survival.

“The Hawaiian monk seal is a treasure to be preserved for future generations,” said William T. Hogarth, assistant administrator for NOAA Fisheries Service. “This new recovery plan is a positive step to save them from possible extinction.”

—LiveScience Staff

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