An anonymous tip received on the DLNR Tip app showed photographs of a couple posing for pictures with a Hawaiian monk seal on a beach within Ka‘ena Point State Park.

In addition to not complying with NOAA’s safe viewing guidelines, the couple had a small dog, off-leash around the seal.

In a press release DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) Chief Jason Redulla said, “Regrettably we did not have an officer in the area, but we wanted to release the tipster’s photographs to illustrate this irresponsible behavior.”

Redulla added, “Monk seal pupping on beaches like Kaimana in Waikīkī, illustrate the protection and care that DLNR, NOAA, and other partners institute to protect seals. They are critically endangered and have the highest levels of protections available. We hope that local residents and visitors alike will become educated about safe wildlife viewing guidelines and the rules and laws regarding human behavior around seals.”

DLNR Photo