- The population of the leatherback sea turtles in the Pacific Ocean has decreased by 95 percent (from more than 80,000 nests to less than 3,000) in the last decade.
- The Hawaiian monk seal population is declining at a rate of 11 percent annually with fewer than 1,400 animals remaining.
At home in the warm waters off Hawaii, monk seals spend three months ashore and the remaining time at sea. With the population in steady decline, scientists have begun to research the little-known life of monk seals at sea.
Institute scientists in collaboration with colleagues from NOAA Fisheries, have completed monitoring of the foraging behavior and movements of 122 Hawaiian monk seals at five of their six breeding colonies in the northwestern Hawaiian Islands. They are now deep into analyzing the data that were reported through earth orbiting satellites to provide key information to managers and policy makers on the marine habitats that are important in conserving this endangered species and maintaining vital coral reef ecosystems.
|
 |
 |
| |
Caused primarily by entanglements and accidental capture by fishing gear, this global trend of decline has put this magnificent sea turtle on the verge of extinction. Through the use of radio and satellite transmitters and an innovative harness technology, HSWRI scientists are currently tracking the movements of leatherbacks in the Atlantic Ocean after they nest in the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge in Florida. By understanding leatherback migratory patterns, Institute scientists can identify the critical habitats for this species, predict where and when fishing conflicts may occur and provide guidelines for safe fishing zones that will prevent similar deaths.
|
|
 |
|
