Hawaiian Monk Seal
1.6Γ youAbout as long as a few 10-year-olds lying head to toe.
Photo: Paul Hirst (Phirst) (CC BY-SA 2.5)
3 featured species Β· 3 habitat zones
Animals of Hawaii
Hawaii is a special place with many amazing animals you won't find anywhere else. Brightly colored birds sing in the trees, while beautiful fish swim in the clear ocean waters. You might even see a big sea turtle gliding by or a cheerful dolphin jumping out of the waves. The wildlife in Hawaii is full of life and color!
Featured Species
Habitat Zones
Coastal Waters
Coastal waters in Hawaii are clear and blue, teeming with colorful fish and sea life. It's a busy place where the land meets the ocean's waves.
Hawaiian monk seal, Green sea turtle, Spinner dolphin
Rainforests
Hawaii's rainforests are lush and green, filled with towering trees and thick ferns. They are magical places that are often misty and damp.
Hawaiian honeycreeper, Kamehameha butterfly, NΔnΔ goose
Volcanic Slopes
Volcanic slopes are covered in rugged lava rocks and sparse vegetation. They are special because they show how new land is formed over time.
Hawaiian hawk, Yellow-faced bee, Hawaiian hoary bat
How Big Are They?
Each animal shown next to a 10-year-old (π§) at true scale.
Nene
40% of youA little longer than a school ruler.
Green Sea Turtle
1.2Γ youAbout as long as one to two 10-year-olds lying down.
Where to Spot Them
Hawaiian Monk Seal
Look in: Hawaiian Islands
Watch for: They spend two-thirds of their life at sea but come ashore to rest and give birth.
Nene
Look in: Hawaii's Big Island, Maui, Kauai
Watch for: Nene mate for life and family groups stay together.
Green Sea Turtle
Look in: Throughout the Hawaiian Islands
Watch for: Green Sea Turtles rely on beaches to nest and lay eggs.
Cultural Connection
The Hawaiian Monk Seal and Nene are revered in Hawaiian culture and important to conservation efforts. The 'Aloha Spirit' teaches respect and harmony with nature.
Vocabulary
How do the habitats and lifestyles of the Hawaiian Monk Seal and the Nene compare to animals found on the mainland United States?