SEPTEMBER 2010  ~  “Summer Vacation”

1. As we approached the end of August, Hō‘ailona was observed taking more and more opportunities to just relax and enjoy his version of summer vacation.  Basking in the sun, rolling around in the sand, and taking relaxing laps around the pool.  It was no surprise when we started to notice Hō‘ailona ditching his old fur and adorning a beautiful new shining fur coat.  Hō‘ailona has nearly completed his molt, with all of his old fur being replaced with a very vibrant new coat.  During this molting process, Hō‘ailona continues to work with his trainers and allow them to provide him with the best possible care as well as collect extremely valuable information about the energetic cost Hawaiian monk seals encounter when they incur this yearly transformation.  Hō‘ailona continues to showcase how he is able to contribute to his species in extremely significant ways.
   

Hō‘ailona showcasing his new fur!

(NMFS Permit No. 932-1905)

February 2010

March 2010

April 2010

May 2010

June 2010

July 2010

August 2010

September 2010

October 2010

November 2010

January 2011

April 2011