PMLF Sponsors Study of Hawaiian Monk Seals

Shannon Atkinson, PhD, of the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology is overseeing graduate level research conducted through the auspices of the University of Hawaii, funded in large part by Pacific Marine Life Foundation. Dr. Atkinson offers this brief synopsis of one study now underway:

"In 1976, the Hawaiian monk seal was officially listed as endangered. This followed a severe reduction in beach counts of seals between 1950 and 1970.

"An understanding of reproduction and other physiological processes is crucial to the management of the Hawaiian monk seal. Few previous studies have concentrated on the seasonal cycle or reproductive physiology of male pinnipeds. Using captive male seals at the Waikiki Aquarium, our current study is examining how reproduction and metabolism are related.

"The results of this study will provide a baseline for examining natural fluctuations that occur in animals on a stable diet, living in a controlled environment (i.e., the ideal) and will allow for the development of models by which science can assess the energetic requirements of wild populations."

Monk Seal Study | Migrational Survey | Interventional Research | Spinner Dolphin Study

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