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Monachus schauinslandi
This is a critically endangered type of seal. Once the seal (named T-12) came on to the beach to rest, people came and put signs around the seal explaining that its species is very endangered and not to touch it or get to close to it. As of 16 Jan 2015, this genus has been renamed "Neamonachus". Monk seals are so called because of folds of skin around their head and because they tend to spend time alone or in small groups. (thanks for telling me this, Leuba Ridgeway!)
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Thanks for everyone who favorited this, thanks for supporting this seal!
Hopefully he can breed someday, giving more seals to the population! Perhaps he already has. :)
Well, I am not exactly sure how old T-12 is, but yes, I believe there would be enough of these seals for him to possibly get a mate.
Fantastic!! Thank you so much for sharing such an event, medusasnakes123 Now I am wondering how many are there? Would it be able to find a mate or is it too old for mating?
T-12 is so protected that no dogs could get to him, and I believe he has survived.
Oh, ok, Leuba Ridgway.
Great spotting medusasnakes123. I hope you don't mind me adding an update.
As of 16 Jan 2015, this genus has been renamed "Neomonachus". Monk seals are so called because of folds of skin around their head and because they tend to spend time alone or in small groups.
http://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/pr/species...
And also thanks to everyone who favorite, Jae, Noah N., DanielePralong, AntonioGinjaGinja, Mark Ridgway.....
Brilliant to get a shot of one. Looks really comfortable. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks, Jae and Mauna Kunzah. Good news, so far he's surviving!!!
Lovely!
thank you, Jae
That's good to hear :)
Lots of people in Hawaii are hoping he will survive, and so far it looks like T-12 has a very high chance of survival!