A Hawaiian monk seal and its pup lie on the beach in this photograph provided by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. With March through August being the primary birthing season for the endangered species, state officials are reminding people to give the moms and their pups space. Photo courtesy DLNR

With three Hawaiian monk seals born in Hawaii in 2025 and 34 born in 2024, state officials are asking the public to help ensure the future of the endangered species by keeping at least 150 feet away from mother-pup pairs, especially when they are in the water.

According to the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, the growing number of seals means there is a higher chance of people interacting with pups and their mothers.

After giving birth, monk seal mothers typically nurse their pups for five to seven weeks. During this time, the pup is gaining vital nutrients for its survival, and nursing moms may react aggressively to anyone who gets too close.

The state says that when seals are born at highly visible and popular beaches, the chances of someone getting hurt increase dramatically.

“Monk seals give birth year-round, but March through August is when we see the majority of these adorable — and endangered — pups make their debut,” said Brian Neilson, administrator of the DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources, in a news release.

State officials try to work with city and county agencies to protect seals and to bring attention to potential problem locations where seal-human encounters may occur.

People can help by giving mothers with pups at least 150 feet of space on land and in the water, which equates to half of a football field. Also, dogs should be kept on a leash any time their owners take them to the beach because it’s often impossible to know if there is a seal in the area.

People are encouraged to report all seal sightings to the statewide NOAA Marine Wildlife Hotline at 888-256-9840.

Hawaiian monk seals are native to Hawaiʻi and protected by state and federal laws.

To minimize potential disturbances, specific locations of births are not publicized unless there’s a need to bring attention to a potential problem.

“We appreciate everyone’s understanding and support during these crucial nursing periods,” Neilson said. “Let’s admire from afar to keep everyone safe.”

If people see temporary fences or signs up around a mom and her pup, they are advised to observe the seals from behind the signs.

Once weaned, mother seals abruptly leave their pups. The pups then fend for themselves and learn to forage on their own.

State officials say it is important that pups not get accustomed to human interactions, which can alter a pup’s natural behavior and result in harmful outcomes for both the pup and people.