Hawaiian monk seal pup RV96, also named “‘Ānela ‘Auinalā,” explores a new cove after successful relocation to a remote Oahu beach. NOAA Fisheries, Hawaii Marine Animal Response and the Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources relocated the pup, equipped with a temporary satellite tag, on June 19. Photo courtesy NOAA Fisheries

NOAA Fisheries has relocated Hawaiian monk seal pup RV96, also known as “Anela Auinala,” from Kaimana Beach in Waikiki to an undisclosed beach on Oahu.

The agency said the move will help the young seal develop natural survival behaviors away from the large crowds at Waikiki.

The pup was moved Friday after officials confirmed mother seal RK96, known as “Kaiwi,” had weaned her June 16, making the pup independent.

The recently relocated Hawaiian monk seal pup makes her way from the rocky shoreline into the gentle waters of the cove at her new beach. Photo courtesy NOAA Fisheries

Before the relocation, the seal received a health check, preventative vaccination, identification tags and a temporary satellite tag for monitoring.

NOAA said the pup’s new location will not be disclosed to minimize stress and prevent crowding.

The Kaimana Beach Hawaiian monk seal pup was born to a well-known seal named “Kaiwi” in May. Photo courtesy Hawaii Marine Animal Response