Hawaiian Monk Seal PO7 : Monk Seal Pup Attacked by Dog: Post-mortem Exam Results

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Monk seal pup attack
2. Post-mortem examination results

The Hawaiian monk seal pup, PO7, tragically died from injuries sustained in a dog attack on Oahu’s North Shore. Federal wildlife officials confirmed that the female pup, born to the well-known seal Luana, suffered puncture wounds and hemorrhaging consistent with a dog attack. This loss is devastating for the endangered species, as female seals are crucial to their recovery. This is the third known death of a monk seal due to a dog attack in Hawaii. Authorities are urging pet owners to adhere to leash laws to protect native wildlife. Meanwhile, another monk seal pup, Kaiwi, and her offspring, Pa’aki, are thriving under the care of volunteers and conservation officers.

Tragic Loss of Hawaiian Monk Seal Pup Due to Dog Attack on North Shore of Oahu

On the picturesque North Shore of Oahu, a heart-wrenching incident unfolded as Hawaiian monk seal RN58, affectionately known as Luana, gave birth to her newborn pup, PO7. However, this joyous occasion quickly turned into a tragedy as the innocent pup fell victim to a brutal dog attack.

Confirmation of Cause of Death

Following a post-mortem examination, federal wildlife officials from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) confirmed that pup PO7 sustained fatal injuries from a dog attack. The puncture wounds found on the pup’s body were consistent in size with bites from a dog, and the internal hemorrhaging indicated shaking trauma caused by the attack.

Devastating Loss for Endangered Species

NOAA Fisheries expressed deep sorrow over the loss of pup PO7, emphasizing the significance of female seals in the recovery of the endangered species. The pup’s potential as a future monk seal matriarch, contributing to generations of new seals, makes her death a heavy blow to conservation efforts.

Investigation and Previous Incidents

NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement is actively investigating the death of pup PO7, with an individual cooperating with authorities. This tragic incident marks the third known death of a monk seal due to a dog attack in the main Hawaiian Islands. In the past, pups RS48 and RFX4 also suffered similar fates following encounters with dogs.

Call for Responsible Pet Ownership

NOAA urged pet owners across Hawaii to adhere to leash laws to protect monk seals and other native wildlife. Even well-trained dogs can behave unpredictably when encountering wild animals, posing a threat to their safety and survival.

Current Conservation Efforts

While mourning the loss of pup PO7, the focus remains on nurturing other monk seal families like Kaiwi and her pup, Pa’aki, at Kaimana Beach. State conservation officers and volunteers from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources continue to monitor and support these precious seals in their natural habitat.

Reporting and Support

Members of the public are encouraged to report any monk seal sightings, injuries, or strandings to NOAA’s marine wildlife hotline at 888-256-9840. Additionally, concerns regarding off-leash dogs and safety issues can be reported to the DLNR at 808-643-DLNR or through the DLNRTip app.

As we reflect on this heartbreaking incident, let us honour the memory of pup PO7 by advocating for responsible pet ownership and conservation efforts to safeguard the future of Hawaiian monk seals.