Death of seal on Kaua'i coast puzzles marine scientists

By Jan TenBruggencate
Advertiser Science Writer

Marine mammal experts are mystified by the death of an apparently healthy Hawaiian monk seal, found last Thursday evening at the water's edge at Kapa'a.

A necropsy on the 425-pound adult male seal showed no sign of injury or illness.

Veterinarian Bob Braun was assisted in the investigation by NOAA Fisheries marine mammal biologist Brad Ryon, who said the animal had no recent injuries and did not appear to be starving, although there was no food in its belly.

Tissue samples were sent to Mainland labs to test for disease or toxic compounds. Results will take several weeks.

Ryon said the seal was known to biologists as KO7, and he estimated it was at least 18 years old. Its island of origin was not known, but it had been seen around Kaua'i waters for the past several years.

The notable issue with KO7 was that the seal had been interacting regularly with humans. Kaua'i residents at the Nawiliwili harbor had been feeding it, and the seal had begun begging for food, going from one human to another with its mouth open. It also had been seen begging at Port Allen and at the Kapa'a boat ramp.

Wildlife officials had urged residents to stop feeding the seal.

"It puts the seals at risk, coming into contact with humans where they can potentially be struck by boats," Ryon said.

Because KO7 spent so much time in harbors, it was also in regular contact with fresh water, which could carry disease organisms. One test would try to determine whether the seal might have contracted leptospirosis, Ryon said.

Reach Jan TenBruggencate at jant@honoluluadvertiser.com or (808) 245-3074.