Seal Resting Area (SRA) are small areas of shoreline around hauled-out monk seals who is resting on the beach and/or a pair of mom and pup who is nursing and sleeping on the beach. SRAs are temporarily delineated with signs, rope, and/or fencing. NOAA suggests the distance between a seal & the observers about 50 feet away and a pair of mom and pup & the observers about 150 feet away.
SRAs help make the public aware of the presence of a seal on the beach and decrease the chances of a dangerous or un-intentional disturbance. They are used to create awareness and enhance public safety. Usually, Hawaii Marine Animal Responses volunteers also work on the site to meet with people and educate the public about this treasured animal.
SRA sign and fence around Kaiwi, RK96 and her 2nd pup, Wawamalu, RK24 — Mom & pup nursing area in May 2018
Kaiwi, RK96 with SRA sign — “Shhh… I am sleeping”
Honey Girl, R5AY and her 12th pup, Makoa, RL36 — Mom & pup nursing SRA in May 2019
