The Hawaiian monk seal (‘īlio holo i ka uaua) is one of the most endangered marine mammals in the world, with only 1,600 individuals remaining. Endemic to Hawai‘i, these seals are deeply tied to Hawai‘i’s culture and ecosystems but face growing threats from entanglement, disease, habitat loss, and human disturbance.
Two Hawai‘i-based programs are advancing monk seal conservation through hands-on care and community education. The Marine Mammal Center’s Ke Kai Ola hospital provides lifesaving care and rehabilitation for sick or injured monk seals before returning them to the wild. SMMILE (Summer Marine Mammal Intensive Learning Experience) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that empowers Hawai‘i high school students through immersive education programs in marine mammal research, conservation, and stewardship.
Together, these efforts are helping to protect Hawaiian monk seals while inspiring the next generation of ocean ambassadors. As critical funding for monk seal research and education has been reduced, your support is more vital than ever. With your purchase, you are helping to protect monk seals and support the people working to protect them.
To learn more visit:
https://www.mmrphawaii.org/smmile
https://www.marinemammalcenter.org/
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