The Too-Friendly Seal

Press Watch, Molokai Dispatch, June 29, 2009

Life is good for KP2, a young male Hawaiian monk seal who calls Kaunakakai Wharf his home. Wherever people are, KP2 is sure to be found, whether it’s diving with laughing children or grabbing onto an outrigger for a ride. Some find his behavior annoying, but most are endeared by this bright-eyed, playful creature who prefers human company to hanging out with fellow seals. […]

Abandoned by his mother on Kauai at 24 hours old, KP2, short for Kauai pup two, was found by NOAA biologists. He was raised in captivity for eight months before his release in Kalaupapa last November. A few months later, he appeared at the Kaunakakai Wharf, and a team of biologists and volunteers worked to educate the public about keeping their distance from KP2. [see Freedom at Last for KP2, TMG 12(1):June 2009.]

The team also tried repeatedly to discourage the seal from making the area his home, but with no luck. Finally, on Friday, June 12, NOAA transported him back to Kalaupapa hoping he would socialize with other young seals and “stay wild.” However, in just two days, KP2 had made his way back to the wharf in time to swim with the neighborhood kids before sunset. […]

On July 9, NOAA will make a decision about KP2’s future. Several options are on the table, according to Schofield, but they all involve removing KP2 from Molokai.

“As managers, NOAA has to remove the animal so he doesn’t become aggressive,” said Schofield.

Relocating KP2 to another Main Hawaiian Island, to a remote area in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, or to an aquarium are all being discussed.

Many Molokai residents say they hope KP2 will be moved to a sea-life park, where he can remain safe and monitored, but still interact with people.

“He is one of the toughest challenges in my career,” Schofield explained. “People dream of swimming with wild animals, but I can tell you it will end badly both for people and the seal.”

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