A Hawaiian monk seal rests on the sand at Ho‘okipa Beach Park. Eli Pace/The Maui News

Monk seals remain among Hawaii’s most endangered species, and their pupping season is underway.

Most births occur from March to August, though monk seals give birth year-round.

After coming ashore to give birth, female Hawaiian monk seals typically nurse their pups for five to seven weeks. During this time, mothers invest all their energy in caring for their young and can be especially protective.

The Hawaiian monk seal is one of the most endangered seal species in the world. The population had declined for approximately six decades but is slowly increasing again, a trend that’s credited to recovery efforts. NOAA estimates the population at about 1,600 seals.

While seal births offer a rare opportunity to observe native wildlife, state wildlife officials are reminding the public to keep their distance.

Hawaiian monk seals are protected under state and federal law, and it is illegal to harass, disturb or harm them.

People can help protect pups and their mothers by staying at least 150 feet away. All dogs should be kept on leash and well away from seals. In general, people should keep at least 50 feet away from all monk seals.

People should remain behind posted signs, cones or barriers and avoid swimming near a mother and pup.

State officials said maintaining a safe distance helps prevent stress that can cause mothers to abandon their pups or act defensively. Mother seals can weigh hundreds of pounds and may bite if threatened.

Hawaiian monk seals are found nowhere else in the world and are an important part of Hawaii’s natural and cultural heritage.

Community reports of sightings help biologists monitor seal health and respond quickly if intervention is needed.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources encourages the public to report sightings, especially those involving pups, to the NOAA Marine Wildlife Hotline at 888-256-9840.