DB Post Wednesday 9/30/09

The Rabbit Island cast for today began with RIP at the left end at 0700, and then when I got back from my SWQ trek in the afternoon I found first Kolohe, and then Mikala.

The Billands had reported Irma at White Plains on their 0601 call. I decided to make a South-West Quadrant run and from 0950 until 1235 I covered the area from Ewa Beach to Campbell Industrial Park. Irma at White Plains was my only find. She was in the capable flippers of Diane Gabriel. Diane called again at 1245 to report that Kermit had joined Irma at 1210. When the Billands checked at 1640, Irma was once again alone.

I got shots from Jenn Maldonado after her Ka'ena Point trek, and confirmed that she had seen Kerby, Ka'ena, T15M, and what, unfortunately has to be carried as an U/U, who is obviously molting. The character of the molt would suggest a youngish animal, but I have no clue at this writing.

The afternoon Rabbit Island check , unfortunately involved two bad guys (1 male, 1 female) off a small inflatable craft. They came ashore at 2BS, at 1521, and explored to the right end of the island. They encountered, and ran off Kolohe who was to the right of 3BS. I called DOCARE , of course, but got the "end of the work day" story. There was no DOCASRE response, and the two got away clean........................again !!!! DOCARE hours are 0745 until 1645, but anything after 1500 appears to be too late !

Irma


Kermit
Kerby & Ka'ena
T15M & U/U

DB (cont) DOCARE

Seal Count Saturday 10/17/09

Seal Count October 17th, 2009 10am - 1pm
Its that time again! Help make the 6th Seal Count a success! We're looking for interested groups or individuals to particpate in a Hawaiian monk seal count. Volunteers will be assigned to a beach location and asked to fill out a sightings form. Please note the following TRAINING dates and locations: Mandatory Pre-count Meetings

Monday October 5th - Waikiki Aquarium - 7pm-9pm

Tuesday October 6th - Ewa Beach Library - 6pm-8pm

Wednesday October 7th - Kailua Sailboards - 6pm-8pm

Saturday October 10th - Waimea Valley Pikake Room (Upstairs) - 10am - Noon

Monday October 12th - Manana Community Center Pearl City - 6pm - 8pm

DB Post Tuesday 9/29

On my first look at Rabbit Island at 0636 I found RIP at the left end, 60 ft left of 1BS, and Buster & Kolohe, close together, tucked into the Morning Glory 30 ft right of 3BS. All would move down to cool off for the day. On a pan at 1308 I found that Benny had joined Buster & Kolohe. There was very little observed interaction.

At 1418, Mikala hauled out, 30 ft left of 1BS at the left end. All were in snooze mode when I departed at 1600.

Team Billand set a new early morning record by calling at 0558, to report that Irma remained at White Plains, fronting #1708. It was an exciting day at White Plains and through multiple calls I was kept up to date. Kermit showed up early to swim White Plains and ultimately would haul out fronting #1706. Irma left her #1708 spot, and for the first time in 11 days, entered the water and swam first to the west and then to the east, and hauled out near the east end perimeter fence. The swim obviously had an affect on her molt. She is rapidly rotting.
Just an added note: A big mahalo to the volunteers out at White Plains watching over Irma and Kermit. Barb and Rob have been out there everyday and we have a great cast of volunteers; Jessica Watkins, Jeanne Martinson, Jen & Rafe Maldonado, Dana Jones, Diane Gabriel, Jan & Willie Williamson, Alan Renninger, Gretchen Garbett, Tony Querubin, Liz Weske, Karen Banes and of course Jim Brown!

A Message From KP2

(Thanks Val :-)
Aloha everyone,
Kp2 here, just wanted to share my most recent photos. As many of you know I have been experiencing my first molt. I am now sporting a beautiful silver/grey fur coat. Got to tell ya that molting was a difficult process. All I wanted to do was sleep....I spent a number of hours on the swim steps at the Kaunakakai Wharf. You know, this wharf is just not the right place for a famous seal like me to molt. Oh,did you know that my photo was in the Wall Street Journal?? I just might need to get an agent!
There was always someone wanting to take my photo, swim with me, talk to me, shower me, oh the list goes on. Next year I really need to find a nice sandy beach for this molting business. I did manage to find a quiet place at the wharf where not many people could find me. It allowed me to have a few hours of peace and quiet. I appreciated the time alone.
I have a number of cool volunteers that monitor me everyday. They protect me and I always hear them telling folks about my life and how I got here to the Kaunakakai wharf. They say I am a great Monk Seal Ambassador!!

This wharf area has been a fun place to hang especially when the kids were around. Those kids were alot of fun. With all those kids around it was kinda like having my own seal colony. Now that I am getting bigger and a much better swimmer not as many kids get in the water to play with me. That makes me sad, but I think it's best. I really need to find some seal buddies that can play rough and tough with me. They tell me I may be going to another area to live. Well I am a little sad about leaving all my pals here on Molokai, but again I think it's in my best interest. A good looking seal like me really needs to be out where he can find some cute girl seals.
Hope you enjoy my new look, it sure took alot of hard work.Til next time.

Love and aloha,
Kp2

DB Post Monday 9/28/09

The day began with RIP having Rabbit Island all to himself , just left of 1BS. According to my records he is due to molt soon, so that explains why he has been cruisin' on the beach of late.
At 1031 Mikala hauled out fronting 1BS at the left end of the beach and hot on her flippers came Benny ! I guess Buster must have given him the slip. Since they hauled out relatively close by RIP, Benny was ready to beef, but RIP couldn't care less, and just rolled over, barely acknowledging Benny's presence. There was minimal interaction between Benny and Mikala, and Benny reentered the water again at 1039. Because of the rough water conditions I lost him immediately, but at 1254 Benny hauled out again to join Mikala. Once again she just didn't respond to him, so he once again reentered the water at 1315, and I did not see him again today.

Team Billand called at 0608 to report Irma still at her #1708 location on D#10. Barbara called again at 0947 to report 2AW at Tracks (Kahe Power Plant), and then again at 1022 to advise that Kermit had joined Irma at White Plains at 0845. Barbara's 1400 call reported that Kermit had departed Irma and that she was following him as he began swimming off to the west. She lost him at Wind Sock, Kalaeloa Beach.

RIP, Benny & Mikala

Irma Molting - Look Ma No Cavities

Irma & Kermit (true love - he sticks by her even on her bad hair days)

Irma & Kermit

Kermit, Irma & Friend

2AW

DB Post Sunday 9/27

Today was one of the low points of my year. The Century Bike Ride once again made the roads of Oahu a really unfun place to be. I did my usual early morning route, and got to Makai Pier just slightly before the roads became inundated out this way, with every bike rider in the whole world. There were still toooooo many of them still on the road when I made my way home this evening.

At 0638 I found RIP on the beach, 20 ft left of 1BS on Rabbit Island. He would remain at that location all day.

I would not see another animal until Kolohe hauled out at the right end of the beach at 1322. He too would remain there the rest of the day.

At 1329 Mikala hauled out 110 ft left of 1BS, and she also remained there the rest of the day.

The Billands had a much more interesting day. Barbara called at 0630 to report that Irma was still at #1708 at White Plains on D#9. Barbara called again at 0734 to say that she'd found Kermit near the west perimeter fence but he was on the move. There may have been some water sightings during the day, but ultimately the Kermit the last sighting was when he hauled out to join Irma at 1442. I saw D#1 of Irma's molt in Barbara's shots today. It has begun !

The Billands also reported Rocky to the right of the Nimitz Beach jetty at 1124.

DB Post (cont)

Irma N3

Kermit
Rocky
Rocky

Thank you Rob and Barb for the great photos

Kermit Makes a Get Away

Mom and I arrived at White Plains about 8:15 AM. Barb and Robert were there and Kermit had just arrived, AGAIN. He didn't hang very long as Irma was not showing much love or tolerance for his nudges and nose to nose interaction. About 5 minutes after arriving he decided to take off. After that the fun began. It was hilarious. He swam right straight down the beach right through all the surfers and boogie boarders. There was a lot of frenzy on the beach. Barb and I were running with Kermit down the beach and she was snapping pictures and he was heading for the surf boards and then diving under them and around them and just having a great time making everyone get out of his way. What a guy. It seemed he knew what he was doing messing with folks and just being playful and cute.

The 3 kids that he scared, in Barb's photo, I did go and speak to. I invited them to come over to where Irma was and gave them a little outreach on Monk Seals. They were hyped and still having a rush about the encounter. Barb let them see the photos she would share and I gave them the website information. Barb was so sweet and said she would also email them the photos. The children's Mom came over later and spoke with me and thanked us for making a scary situation a memorable moment. I think we won them all over with the history and information we were able to provide.

The rest of my day was pretty normal for White Plains and I'm beginning to see a little more respect for the animals. Are we making a difference????Hope so??? Maybe?????

Mahalo,
Dana & Becky

DB Post Saturday 9/26

The day would begin with RIP at the left end of the beach on Rabbit Island, and Kolohe hiding up in the Morning Glory , directly below 3BS. RIP would sprawl there all day. Kolohe moved down for a morning swim and haul out again at the right end of the beach at 0932, and remain there all day.

I thought I would end the day weanerless, but at the last second Mikala hauled out fronting 1BS at the left end of the beach, at 1453.

Team Billand reported Irma at WP once again on D#8, at 0626. They called again at 0826 to report that Kermit had hauled out once again, to join her, however after a brief spat, Kermit reentered the water at 0853, and swam off in an easterly direction, in the near shore waters, causing a frenzy amongst the swimmers.

News Report Regarding Shooting Death

Aloha Good People

I sent an email out earlier this afternoon when I got the news. I apologize to anyone who did not receive my original message... I was using an incomplete monk seal distribution list. So to all the volunteers I am sorry, I wanted to give you a heads up before you got the news from the television.

Yes I am angry, I am outraged and more than anything I am sad... so sad that we lost another one of our animals... I don't know what this all means, I am at a loss for words. I obtained a copy of the court file from the district attorney. If anyone is interested in a copy please send me an email at dabella50@gmail.com .

Here is the link from KITV...
http://www.kitv.com/news/21121280/detail.html

DB Post Friday 9/25

From the Makapuu Overview, at 0639, I could see what would prove to be Buster (0909) and Benny (0902) close together at the left end of Rabbit Island, near 1BS. They would later move down, and at 0928 entered the water together. I did not see them again today.

From Makai Research Pier at 0652 I found what would turn out to be Sadie (1036), tucked into the base of the cliff at the left end of the beach, 40 ft left of 1BS. She would be near the water line when I got back to MP at 0845.

At 1030 Mikala (1030) hauled out to 1BS and galumphed over to join Sadie. They played a bit on the beach and then entered the water together for a swim/play session, all of which took place in the area of their entry point. At 1215, Mikala hauled out , alone, to the left end of the beach and remain there the rest of the day. I did not see Sadie again today.

At 1220, Duke hauled out to the far left end of the beach, and after moving up, remained there the rest of the day.

On a pan at 1252 I found Kolohe (1402), just hauling out at the right end of the beach. He would move up and spend the rest of the day at that location.

Team Billand called at 0602 to confirm that Irma was once again at WP on D#7.

Just as with the days when Kerby was seen without his fish hook, or when Duke returned from his 11 day mystery adventure, today is yet another of those with news that eclipses everything else. KERMIT IS BACK !!!!! The Billands called at 1212 tell me that on their return to White Plains, they found Kermit lying right along side Irma ! It is absolutely right, and correct that he should be right there with Irma on this first sighting back on Oahu. That is EXACTLY where he should be.

Kermit was last seen at Maili Pt , by the Billands on 5-27-09. Most of you will recall that Kermit's fish hook drama in late April and early May, ended with the removal of the hook at Kalaeloa Campgrounds on 5-3-09. Kermit had no fun at all on that day. Irma was right there along side of him when it happened. They swam off together afterward. Thereafter followed a 4 day haul out for Kermit in Waikiki, and then it was back to Kalaeloa, Makaha, and a few days in the Maili Pt area. He then dropped off the radar. On 6-29, Mimi, on Kauai confirmed that Kermit was on Kauai, and becoming a regular in the Poipu area. I saw photo confirmation of his presence on Kauai on the FLICKR site on 7-6, and another FLICKR shot taken by a dive tour,of Kermit off of Niihau, on 7-10. Welcome Home Kermit !!

Just a couple of paragraphs up I said that some news eclipses everything else. The mail from Donna, concerning the plea agreement for the scum that shot the Kauai Monk Seal, that many or all of you have already received, really drives home that eclipse. $25 , and 90 Days.......... I've exhausted every possible combination of the 3,4,5,7,10, and11 letter words expletives presently available in the English language, After all of that ranting, I'm left with only OUTRAGE as the operative word. Am I surprised......... NO not at all. I gave up all faith in government, enforcement, and what is laughingly referred to as the legal "system" long, long ago.

Reunited and It Feels So Good

DB Post Thursday 9/24/09

At 0545 I found Buster and Benny right where I'd left them last night at the Makapuu end of Kaupo Beach Park. I put up a full cordon, and rechecked them hourly through the morning. On my 1055 check, they had departed.

The Rabbit Island day began at 0625, finding Sadie (0927) tucked into the base of the cliff at the left end. She would move down at 0927 allowing the ID.

At 0941 Mikala (0941) hauled out to IBS and Sadie galumphed over to join her. They played on the beach for a while, and then entered the water at 0947 to continue play. Mikala would haul out again at 1149, but I would not see Sadie again today.

On a pan at 1121 I found Kolohe (1121), on the water front rocks at the right end of the beach. He would remain there the rest of the day.

At 1124, Duke (1124) hauled out to the far left end of the beach, where he would remain the rest of the day.

At 1257 , to my surprise, M38 hauled out to the left end and galumphed up to join Duke. M38 had not been seen since his Diamond Head day with Rocky on 9-14-09. Duke gave him no response at all, and after a few minutes M38 rolled back to the water. He hauled out again at 1335 to join Kolohe at the right end of the beach, and once again Kolohe gave him nothing. M38 quickly settled down to snooze mode.

Team Billand called at 0600 to confirm that Irma still had the long term lease on the beach front of cottage #1708 at White Plains.

At 1354 I got a call from Mary Lobo at Iroquois Point, reporting an animal on their beach. Their people had cordoned the animal off, and she sent photo proof of the Ewa Girl ID. Team Billand also confirmed the Ewa Girl ID at 1622.

Since Ewa Girl has been hanging out in the Campbell Industrial Park, and Kalaeloa areas, this haul out may indicate that she is moving east. While only Ewa Girl knows for sure, it might indicated that she is moving back to her Hanauma Bay haunt. Keep an eye on the left side rock flats guys.

DB Post (cont)

DB Post - (cont) 9/24 Ewa Girl

Great shots of Ewa Girl from Rob & Barb... not only is she a great seal momma... she looks marvelous!

HMSRTO Outreach

Hi Donna here are some pics from the last few outreach events.
I wanted to say thank you to Barbara Allen, Ralph Allen and Kirsten Plath for working the booths.

Rafe Maldonado
HMSRTO outreach

DB Post Wednesday 9/23/09

Based on an early morning email from Patrick Ching ,reporting 2 animals at Kaupo Beach Park last night, I was on the road at 0545. I walked every inch of KPB and found nobody. I spoke with Patrick later in the morning and he advised that he had been told of the haul outs by one of the derelict, homeless, car dwellers, that are "permanent residents" at KPB. It just so happened that the woman was somebody I see everyday, and I spoke with her after speaking with Patrick. Other than to say "2 animals" and "around midnight" she was of no further help. This is the same location where Buster and Ewa Girl hauled out, and Buster alone on 2 other occasions. I'm thinking Buster and Benny, but obviously I have no clue. I haven't seen Buster and Benny since 9-21.

On my first Rabbit Island look at 0628 I found what would prove to be Sadie (1139) , partially visible behind the Morning Glory, 40 ft left of 1BS. She would move down at 1139 allowing the ID.

At 0943 , Mikala hauled out 90 ft left of 1BS, and would remain there, by herself the rest of the day.

At 1226, Duke (1226) hauled out to join Sadie, left of 1BS. There was very little interaction, and both animals remained there together for the rest of the day.

At 0616, Team Billand called to confirm that Irma was still at White Plains, fronting #1708, for D#5.

Email from Jenn Metz provided news that Ka'ena & Kerby were together at Ka'ena Point on her 9-22 trek.

........like I said, Buster and Benny ! I was pau for da' day, but a call from the afore mentioned Kaupo Beach Park homeless derelict lady at 1833 brought news that "they're back ". When I arrived at 0650 there was just enough light to allow me to say for absolute certain that it was Buster and Benny. I put up some signs, and will just have to hope that the denizens at the rock bottom of the society who dwell there will stay put in their cars (homes), and leave them alone. I called it a day in the pitch black at 1910. I'll be back first thing in the morning

DB Post Tuesday 9/22/09

It was not until my 2nd look at Rabbit Island at 0931, that I finally found a critter. On my first pass at 0630 I thought there might be something hidden in the shadows at the base of the left end cliff, but when I got back to Makai Pier at 0931 it was apparent that there was an animal partially visible back there. When the critter moved down at 1053 it proved to be Sadie (1043) . She would move into the water at 1055 and haul out again to join our next cast member. at 1058.

At 0941 Mikala (0945) hauled out 60 ft left of 1BS at the left end of the beach. After playing with sticks for a while, she reentered the water and hauled out again at the far left end of the beach. At 1058 Sadie would haul out to join her. There was barely any interaction at all, and both remained there the rest of the day.

Because I had not seen the newly returned Duke all day, I decided to relocate to the Makapuu Overview (MO) at 1536, and sure enough there was Duke behind rocks that made him invisible from Makai Pier (MP). I relocated to Kaupo Beach Park and confirmed the Duke ID at 1542. No photo evidence was possible, but Whisperers don't lie... honest !

Just a brief note on Sadie and Duke. Regular readers may remember that I opined during Duke's absence that he might have taken off on a adventure with Sadie. When he popped up yesterday after his 11 day absence I expected to see Sadie, if that were true. By end of day she had not shown, however when I found her first thing this morning, I couldn't help but think that the possibility is still something to think about. Only Sadie and Duke know.

Team Billand called at 0657 to advise that Irma was still at cottage #1708 at White Plains, for D#4. They redid the cordon and continued on their adventure, finding nobody else in the SW quadrant. I received mail and photos from Diane Gabriel so I know that she was there, but for all who served in anonimity today. Thank you...............very much !!!! You are each worth your weights in Manapua !!!

Sadie & Mikala

Irma at White Plains

Classes at Hanauma Bay

Explore the Lives of Hawaiian Monk Seals,
with UH Sea Grant’s Hanauma Bay Education Program

During the month of October the UH Sea Grant Hanauma Bay Education Program will be hosting researchers and experts to explore the lives of the Hawaiian monk seal. Come to Hanauma Bay on Thursday evenings to learn about monk seals of the Main Hawaiian Islands, monk seals of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, life history, health and disease, challenges, what is being done to protect this endangered species and what you can do as an individual to assist with their recovery. The weekly series is conducted at the City and County of Honolulu ’s Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve.

October 1 - “Monk Seals of the Main Hawaiian Islands: Status and Interactions”
by Tracy Wurth, NOAA-PIRO/JIMAR – Monk Seal Sighting Coordinator and Biological Technician

October 8 – ““Monk Seals of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands: A Story of
Survival” by Dr. Kathleen Gobush, NOAA - Monk Seal Survival
Enhancement Lead and Research Ecologist

October 15 – “My Days with the Monk Seals on Laysan Island” by Patrick Ching,
Resident Artist - Naturally Hawaiian and former U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Employee

October 22 – “Monk Seal Health and Disease” speaker to be announced

October 29 - “Monk Seal Family Tree and Life History: A True Survivor”
by Dr. Jennifer Schultz, NOAA - Monk Seal Program
Researcher

As always, these events begin at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday evening in the theater at the Hanauma Bay Education Center . Events are free and open to the public, with no charge for parking after 5:30 p.m. We hope to see you on Thursday evening! These programs are supported and funded by the City and County of Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation.

For more information, contact the UH Sea Grant Hanauma Bay Education Program:
phone: (808) 397-5840, email: hanauma@hawaii.edu, or visit www.hanaumabayeducation.org

DB Post Monday 9/21/09

On my first look at Rabbit Island from Makapuu Overview (MO) at 0648 I found what would prove to be Buster (0657) and Benny (0657) close together , 20 ft left of 1BS.

When I got back to Makai Pier (MP) at 0858 they had moved down and at 0904 they both entered the water , with Buster in the lead, and I would not see them again today.

On a pan at 0911 I found Mikala (1050) in her favorite tide pool, at the right end of the beach.

Taking advantage of the mid day low tide, I did a walking check of every inch of the water line from Makai Pier to Kiaona Beach Park in Waimanalo from 1110 until 1225. This was D#11 of the Duke Quest, but I found nothing.

When I got back to the pier I found that Mikala was no longer visible, so I was looking at an empty island. After a short phone conversation with Barbara Billand concerning Irma Poop, I looked into the scope at 1300, and to my absolute Shock & Awe.............Therrrrrrrrrrrre was DUKE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! at the left end of the beach. Why the HECK couldn't he have hauled out BEFORE I walked a gazillion miles ??????? This was D#11 of his absence. My elation was every bit as profound as getting the Kerby news a few days ago. These kids are killin' me !!!!

At 1308 Mikala hauled out 20 ft to Duke's right, and at 1316 Duke galumphed over to join her. At 1319 both entered the water and did a swim / play session in the shallows until 1347, when they hauled out together, 80 ft left of 1BS, with Duke in the lead. Both were in snooze mode when I departed at 1500.

Team Billand confirmed that Irma was still at White Plains, fronting cottage #1708 for the 3rd consecutive day. I am told that volunteers may be with her, if she is in fact there to molt.

A few words about Irma's behavior. Since Irma as basically been at some stage of pregancy ever since I met her, all of her molts have been of the post weaning variety, approximately 60 days after weaning that year's pup. This year she has finally taken a year off. Had she been pregnant she would be with child as we speak, and consequently molt in late November. Since that did not happen she is subject to molt on her normal schedule, want ever that might be. Taking this year off means that IF she has become pregnant again, she would probably give birth at the beginning of the window, around May or June. That being said, it would behoove her to molt early, which may very well might be now ! I've noticed in the photos from the past couple of days that her scratches and dings are looking alittle "molty" around the edges, though actually molting hasn't begun yet. Her recent behavior suggests that we might well be at Irma's molt. We shall see. Welcome home dear duke.. welcome home!

Highlights from the HMSRTO Fundraiser

The Blessing by Hillary Apai and the Aunties
David greets Hillary
Our dear host Kim Taylor Reece

the entertainers

dana, the captain & jen

patrick ching in front of "manana girl"

full house

HMSRTO Board -

karen, colleen, liz, teri, donna, dana & jen

White Plains, Irma & Beach Goers

Aloha Good People
I had the pleasure to sit with Irma this afternoon for her second day at white plains. There was no visible signs of molting... and that seems to be the big question since this is the first time in 9 years Irma did NOT give birth. So the 2 questions are: when will she molt and ... come 2010 when will she pup? ~donna~

jay airbourne

DB Post 9/20/09 Sunday

From Makai Pier at 0656 I found Buster and Benny , up in the Morning Glory, 50 ft left of 1BS on Rabbit Island. They would move down and spend the entire day just above the water line. There was never any observed interaction, and they maintain a 10 ft separation the whole day.

At 1244, Mikala hauled out 90 ft left of 1BS at the left end of the beach. She remained there by herself all day.

Team Billand called at 0615 to report Irma still at White Plains, fronting cottage #1708. She had apparently overnighted. I spoke with Donna, at Irma side, later in the afternoon and Irma was still snoozin'.

Posse person Diane Gabriel, called at 1004 to ask for ID info on an animal she was with at Shark's Cove on the North Shore, Judging by the description given , it sounded like Lona. At 1632 I received photo confirmation from Diane, and it was definitely our girl Lona (R017).

Aloha Blog Lady and friends,
Hubby and I did a Molokai trek today and found this little one in the rocks. He/She (don't know for sure) is RA08. He/She is one of the Kalaupapa kids that has ventured out of the nursery area. We were so lucky to find this cutie. How this sleeping position can be comfortable is totally beyond me. Enjoy--val

DB Post Saturday 9/18/2009

On my 2nd look at Rabbit Island, from Makai Pier at 0838 I found Buster and Benny side by side, 40 ft left of 1BS, at the left end of the beach. They would remain there all day, with very little interaction.

That very little interaction occurred at 1057 when both Benny and Buster alerted and seconds later I got just a quick glimpse of a small animal in the shore break. Benny quickly move to cut off Buster's movement toward the animal, and there was just a second of barking from Benny. The small animal quickly disappeared but hauled out further down the beach, to the left, 90 ft left of 1BS. As I suspected , it turned out to be Mikala. She would remain at that location the rest of the day.

Team Billand called to reported Irma at 0936, at White Plains, fronting cottage #1708.

By Hook or By Crook

Aloha Good People! So 3 points to anyone who can guess this little critter! Take a good close look and note there is something missing.. this is a good thing. For the answer READ on to DB's post... All I can say is WHEW! Thanks to Barb and Rob for their tireless efforts... WOW, honorable! ~donna~

DB Post Friday 9/18/09

The fact that Buster & Benny along with Mikala were at Rabbit Island today, or that Irma was at Palm Grove, Campbell Industrial Park, or even the fact that M&M and a nearly completely molted Ka'ena were seen on the west side approach to Ka'ena Point pale in comparison to the one overwhelming find of this day.

Barbara Billand and some other Anonymous hero, did the Ka'ena Point trek today. The fact that they found M&M on the way in , and Ka'ena , newly molted, lying beside her on the way out, would have been more that enough, but after 54 days they found KERBY !!!! He was on the back beach, and up in the sand. He was also partially molted. All the necessary calls were made, but it was determined by Barbara at 1113, that there was no longer a fish hook there. Abundant documenting shots were taken. Somehow, someway, he did it himself. The bottom line is that the fish hook is gone, and he appeared as happy and healthy as a molting critter can look. As the whippersnappers say..........OMG !!!!! Thank you guys....... you've made a short, fat , bald guy one happy ol' dude !!

Fundraiser at Kim Taylor Reese Gallery

Aloha Good People!
What a day what a day what a day!!!
First a big huge MAHALO to Kim and all his people at the Gallery
PATRICK CHING for his generous donation and hanging out with us the entire evening..
And ALL the wonderful artist who donated artwork, business donations and individuals.
Thanks to DANA for her tireless efforts to pull this event together... and of course to Jen & Rafe that keep this organization ... well organized and focused...

Stay tuned folks for some great photos to come... and more stories... FOR NOW here is the link to the morning news cast with colleen and me... (we were at the KHNL studio at 6 AM...) Not too shabby for a couple of volunteers...

http://www.khnl.com/Global/story.asp?S=11149922

p.s. will someone pull those darn glasses off my nose ..!!!
~donna~

DB Post Thursday 9/17

It was not until my second look at Rabbit Island , from Makai Pier that I finally found critters. When I peered into the scope at 0840 I found Buster, and to my complete surprise , Benny, just hauling out, fronting 1BS at the left end of the beach. It takes seconds to write that sentence, but it would take until 1010 to ID Buster, and the Benny ID was even more drug out. I finally made the confirmed ID at 1205. I think in the future I will put the ID times in parentheses after the names,as I do in the office reports, to give you some idea of how long it takes. Sometimes it's immediate, but mostly it takes hours.

Benny had last been seen, by the Billands at Maili Point on 9-4-09. His last visit to Rabbit Island was in May, when he did his molt. He departed RI on 5-19-09 and returned to Ka'ena Point.

At 1333, Mikala (1324) hauled out 90 ft left of the boyz at the left end of the beach. She managed to spend the entire day by herself. It's only a matter of time before she meets Benny. She'll have her flippers full then !

All cast members remained in their respective locations all day.

Team Billand won the turkey today. The called at 1052 to report Ewa Girl at Maili Point, then again at 1152 with the Irma at Tracks report, and lastly at 1230 with word that Rocky was on "Kermit's Reef" on the right side of the Nimitz jetty.

First Official Fundaraiser HMSRTO

Aloha good people!

HEY just a reminder that tonight (Thurs. 9/17) is HMSRTO's first official fundraiser and our first official 'event'. As many of you already know we have organized and created a nonprofit tax exempt organization Hawaiian Monk Seal Response Team Oahu ... HMSRTO.

We would love for you to join us at the KIM TAYLOR REECE GALLERY, on Bethel Street Honolulu. Bring your family and friends, there is going to be a silent auction with some fantastic artwork... a raffle drawn every 30 minutes with prizes from dinner to weekend get aways.. Just look what Patrick Ching donated... Come by and make a bid at the silent auction. ~donna~

DB Post Wednesday 9/16/09

From the Makapuu Overview (MO) at 0630 I found what would prove to be RIP, just moving toward the water line at the left end of the beach, on Rabbit Island. When I got down to Makai Pier (MP) at 0657 he was just entering the water. I would not see him again today.

At 0939, on a routine pan , I found Mikala newly hauled out to the Middle Cliff area. She would stay only briefly, reentering the water ,and hauling out again to 1BS on the left end of the beach,at 1149. She would remain there all day.

At 0808 I got a call from Turtle Bay Hotel, posse person Brenda, who runs a beach kiosk . She advised that our molter was there again. Hotel security had the animal cordoned off, as the always do. I began the long journey north, but thankfully Brenda called back at 0830 to say that per my request she had gotten the tag number 5AY using her binoculars. I canceled the trip. Brenda called later to advise that 5AY had departed around 1100. Apparently, my wife and 1 cat wager was as safe as I knew it would be. According to Brenda's description I'd guesstimate 5AY's molt at a conservative 80%. Brenda called again at 1704 to say that 5AY was back on the beach, and security was taking care of her. After a day's swim her molt was 99%.

Team Billand called at 0844 to report that Irma was at Maili.

At mid day two DOCARE boats with 6 DOCARE officers aboard along with 3 NOAA people who are responsible for giving them NOAA money for the year, arrived off shore of Rabbit Island. They did not land. DOCARE was just doing the routine "dog & pony show". In addition to those 6 DOCARE personnel I had two with me on the lanai. On most days I can't get even one guy to show up but for this they have 8 officers...Auwe !!!!! Mikala hauled out just as they arrived so they got to see a real life Monk Seal.

I want to thank all of you that have taken the time to let Laura Thielen know what the DOCARE situation is really like out there. I have zero faith, but I really appreciate your heartfelt attempts to get the State's attention.

KP2 GOES NATIONAL - Clip from CBS News

`Aloha Good People!
Our beloved KP2 has made the big time CBS news and here's the clip. I would like to say this... for all the people and volunteers in Molokai, I know the thought of his leaving is hard but remember we need to do what is best for him and the species... Also just know you have all been touched deeply by a very special spirited animal. Many of us on Oahu looked after him and became very attached ( okay I admit it I AM SOOOO jealous I would love to be in the water with him) but he has given us all a gift... brought us together, brought attention to the Hawaiian Monk Seal on a national level. How lucky are we to say we had this wonderful encounter.
~donna~

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/09/15/eveningnews/main5313974.shtml?tag=broadcast

DB Post Tuesday 9/15

On my first look at Rabbit Island from the Makapuu Overview,at 0626, I found what would turn out to be RIP at the left end of the beach. He would remain there all day.

When I got to Makai Research Pier for the day, at 0813 I found Mikala, newly hauled out fronting 1BS at the left end of the beach. Through the next hour she would slowly galumph down to come within 10 ft of RIP, but there was never any interaction. RIP barely acknowledged her presence.

Mikala would enter the water at 1107 and would haul out again to 1BS at 1206, where she spent the rest of the day.

At 1143, Kolohe hauled out to the right end of the Middle Cliff (RMC) and remained there by himself for the rest of the day.

A White Plains lifeguard called at 1446 to report an animal fronting the last cottage. I called Team Billand and , of course, they were on their way. They called at 1534 they called to confirm that it was Ewa Girl.

KP2 going National

Aloha Good People!

I don't have the details but I "heard" Katie Couric from CBS news has followed up with the story about our beloved KP2....

So keep your ears and eyes open the next few nights to see if something hits the airwaves.

WHY is this a good thing.... because the more awareness there is about our Monk Seals the better chances we have to help them.. Chester grandpapa.... KP2 "the kid" got to love it!
~donna~

Monk Seals in the News - Read all about it

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125296869822910133.html
Wall Street Journal Article on KP2

http://kgmb9.com/main/content/view/21103/40/
KGMB9 News on KP2

http://www.starbulletin.com/news/20090914_mom_wanted_kids_to_sit_on_monk_seal_for_photo.html
Starbulletin Article on Volunteering and OUR fundraiser this Thursday 9/17

DB Post Monday 9/14

The Rabbit Island cast for today consisted of Mikala and Kolohe. They interacted alot on the beach and did a swim/ play session from 1151 until each hauled out separately. Kolohe at 1420 at the far left end of the beach, and Mikala, at 1454, 60 ft left of 1BS.

Tracy is apparently on vacation but Brenda (Yoda) Becker called at 1044 with the report from Turtle Bay Hotel of a molting, red tagged animal on their beach. When I spoke with Brenda the rental kiosk person at the hotel at 1052, she advised that the animal had left the beach, and after swimming in their lagoon for a bit, moved out to deeper water, so I did not respond. I'll bet the wife and one cat on R5AY, but of course that is yet to be determined. (DB will you stop gambling with Mrs. DB.)

Colleen Heyer called at 1349 to report TWO animals down the way from her house at Diamond Head. She called again at 1438 to confirm the ID's as Rocky and M38. That came as a real shock, since it is M38's first reported DH haul out, and even more amazing (to me at least) is the fact that this is the first time the brother/ sister team has been seen together. Yep... they share the same Mom, and both were born on Kauai. Rocky is one year senior to M38.

Brenda called again at 1634 with the report that she had sent Team Billand out to find a reported seal in the Maili area. Barbara called at 1724 to report that they had found nothing, but did speak with a homeless,derelict female who said that the "#3 seal" had been near her tent. Barbara asked if there was and N with the 3 and she said yes. Sounds like Irma to me !

This was Day #4 with no Duke sighting. I noticed concerned comments on da' blog, and I totally understand the concern. Duke is 4 months old, and that is the age where they begin to explore. As with Penelope, and Hoku, bad things can and do happen, but equally as likely, as with Kerby, they can begin their life's adventure with or without help from older animals, and be perfectly fine. This was D#4 without a Duke sighting at Rabbit Island. I walked the beach front through Waimanalo, as well as the beach and tide pool areas from the pier to Makapuu, and found nothing. My "whisperer guess" is that he may have taken off with Sadie. We'll just have to wait and see what the future brings. It's all part of the growing up process. We Shall See ! (DB thank you for bringing this up... I wanted to let people know that although WE DO WORRY, this can be as simple as seal behavior, just as Kerby followed benny out to Ka'ena Point... perhaps Duke is following Miss Sadie around.) .. thanks papa smurf ~donna~

DB Post Sunday 9/13

On my first look at Rabbit Island from Makai Research Pier at 0713 I could see an animal tucked into the base of the cliff, 40 ft left of 1BS. The animal would finally move down to cool off at 1150, but it would take until 1313 to finally confirm the Buster ID.

On a pan at 0836 I found Mikala, newly hauled out to the far left end of the beach.

At 1310 Kolohe would haul out approximately 100 ft left of 1BS, and after scaling a substantial cut in the beach he rested for awhile, only to return to the water at 1355. The trip down the cut was easier. He would haul out to join Mikala at 1400, and they would do a swim/play session from 1408 until 1459. As they began to haul out at 1BS Buster came down to meet them and ran Kolohe off. Buster and Mikala continued play. Kolohe would haul out at the far left end of the beach at 1504.

A DOCARE Incident began at 1505 with the arrival of two, local males, in a 2 man , white kayak. They initially put out an anchor, and one of the individuals paddled off to surf, however the other guy elected to haul the kayak up onto the beach 50 ft left of 1BS. He then went off to surf. I made the DOCARE call at 1508. I know for bitter experience that there is not a snowball's chance of getting a DOCARE response late in the day, but I called anyway. I got a call from a DOCARE officer at 1542. They were sitting at Kaupo Beach Park, and yes.... they could see the kayak, and yes.....they could see one individual sitting on the beach watching the other guy surf, but they were getting off in 15 minutes !! Just another day in the farce that is DOCARE.

DB Post Saturday 9/12

My initial looks at Rabbit Island were a bust. It was not until 0918 that I finally found what would prove to be Mikala at the far left end of the beach.

At 1055, Kolohe would haul out to join her, and that was IT for the day !

I relocated to MO at 1500 , hoping to find Duke, but once again (D#2) I could find the little dude.

Team Billand called at 0800 with the report of Irma at Tracks (Kahe Power Plant).

DB Post Friday 9/11

On my first look at Rabbit Island, at 0636 I found M38 and Kolohe at the right end. When I got back to Makai Pier at 0905 M38 was still there, but was now in the company of Mikala.

At 0924 on a pan I found Kolohe galumphing in the shallows approximately 30 ft left of the others, and headed their way. Mikala entered the water before he could get there, and M38 followed her shortly thereafter. After a slight delay, Kolohe also entered the water. I immediately lost everybody.

At 1008 Mikala hauled out by herself at the right end, and just a minute or so later came Kolohe. I did not see M38 again today. Kolohe and Mikala never interacted but spent the rest of the day together.

Team Billand called at 1058 to report a foraging animal off shore of the right side of the Nimitz Beach Park jetty. They called again at 1154 to say that Irma had finally hauled out to "Kermit's Reef", to the right of the jetty.

DB Post Thursday 9/10/09

At 0646, from the Makapuu Overview (MO), I found what would turn out to be Kolohe, tucked into the grass at the right end of the beach on Rabbit Island. When I got back to Makai Pier (MP) at 0944 I found that Kolohe had moved down to the water line to cool off, and he had been joined by Buster. They would both remain there the rest of the day. I never saw any interaction.

Also at 0944 I found Mikala , 100 ft right of 3BS. She would remain there , by herself , all day.

As has happened so often since he joined the cast, when Duke was a no show all day, I decided to relocate to MO at 1400, and sure enough, there was Duke, clearly visible at the Rubble Beach, that I call "Rocky Right Beach" (RRB). He had been totally invisible to me from MP. That location has become one of Duke's favorite hang outs, since it affords little guys alittle peace and quiet.

White Plains lifeguard, John, called at 1027 to report that N3 was on the beach. The lifeguards cordoned her off and put up signs. Team Billand confirmed the Irma ID at 1105.

DB Post Wednesday 9/9

On my first look at Rabbit Island at 0635, and again on my 0805 check, I found RIP at the top of the beach front incline 70 ft left of 1BS. He would be gone when I got back to Rabbit Island at 1142.

From 0806 until 1142 I was on a SW quadrant run. I checked everything from Ewa Beach to Campbell Industrial Park and found nobody.

When I got back to Makai Research Pier at 1142, I found the weaners, Mikala and Duke, close together at the far left end of the beach. They would remain there , together, for the rest of the day.

On pan at 1147 I became aware of a partially visible animal in a tide pool, at the right end of the beach. Just as yesterday it proved to be Kolohe. He would finally move up into full view with the rising tide, at 1439, and remained there the rest of the day.

DB Post Tuesday 9/8/09

On my first Rabbit Island look at 0709 I found M38 just hauling out to the left end incline, lookin' for chicks. When I got back to Makai Pier for the day at 1100, he was no longer there. I did not see him again today.

When I got down to Makai Pier at 0719 I could see that Sadie was, once again, tucked into the base of the left end cliff, 40 ft left of 1BS. She would move down mid morning and spend the day in the company of RIP.

At 1100 when I got back to Makai Pier, I found RIP and Sadie together , 80 ft left of 1BS. They would remain there together the rest of the day.

At 1210 Mikala hauled out briefly at RIP & Sadie's location. Initially, she and Sadie entered the water and began playing in the shore break, but when RIP joined the fun, Mikala took of and hauled out alone at the far left end of the beach, where she would spend the rest of the day. RIP and Sadie would play for a while and then haul out again, lead by Sadie, to the original location

On a pan, at 1256, I became aware of a partially visible animal in a tide pool at the right end of the beach. In all probability the animal had been there all morning and I just happened to luck out and see a shiny new belly. At 1256 I would confirm that it was Kolohe when he hauled out to full view. His D#6 molt is 99%. He has just a small tuft on his posterior left side. Interestingly , his old dorsal epoxy location still shows as a dark, halo ring on his shoulder hump. His right side natural bleach is shining brightly.

On a pan at 1353 I found Duke newly hauled out and galumphing toward Mikala on the far left end of the beach. They would spend the rest of the day together.

Team Billand called at 1110 with the report of Irma at Tracks (Kahe Power Plant).

DB Post Monday 9/7/09

The Rabbit Island cast was composed of M38 who made a brief early morning appearance and then departed, the weaners, Mikala & Duke, and a 95% molted Kolohe, and last but not least the lovely , young Sadie. Unfortunately all of their lives would be affected by the arrival of two spear fishermen, in a 2-man gray kayak who arrived at 1110, interacted with the calst, did a dive from 1127 until 1337, and then hauled out again afterward. They departed at 1419. During their stay they interacted with all the animals. I made the DOCARE call at 1115 and got the much, much dreaded recording, since DOCARE personnel DON"T WORK HOLIDAYS !!!! SAD !!!!!

On my 0802 Spitting Cave I found Buster doing 7 minute dives.

At 0739 Tracy called with the report of Irma at Nimitz Beach. The Billands would confirm the Irma ID at Wind Sock, Kalaeloa at 0956. She had last been seen on 8-13-09 at Wind Sock, by the Billands,

Team Billand also reported Ewa Girl at Palm Grove, Campbell Industrial Park at 1055.

DB (cont) 9/7/2009

DB (cont) DOCARE

DB Post Sunday 9/6/2009

It was a busy little day at Rabbit Island. The cast began with Sadie tucked into the base of the cliff at the left end of the beach on my first look. When I got back to Makai Pier at 0830 I found that Buster and Mikala were together, rolling in the shore break at the left end, fronting 1BS.

That warm , fuzzy moment was disrupted at 0938 when Mr. Congeniality, M38 hauled out to join Buster and Mikala, and as always chaos ensued. Mikala moved up and out of the way, and M38 managed to harass Buster off to the left, and ultimately into the water.

At 1032 Kolohe hauled out at the far left end of the beach. At 1033 good ol' M38 hauled out to join him, but stayed only one minute, and returning to the water. Kolohe's D#5 molt is 95%. His dorsal epoxy patch is history, but his right side natural bleach is quite clear. He would remain there the rest of the day, with no further hassles.

Sadie would move down to join Mikala at 1217, and after some beach play, would enter the water together at 1300. At 1341 Sadie hurriedly hauled out to 1BS with , who else, M38, close behind. Mikala would haul out later at 1425.

At 1256 Colleen Heyer called to report that her friend had called reporting an animal fronting Jim Nabor's house at Black Point, When she arrived she found Rocky (for course).
The last sightings of Rocky have been at Nimitz Beach in the SW quadrant on 8-11 and 8-25. Her last Diamond Head visit was 8-3-09. Welcome Home Rocky !!!

Brenda Sparks called at 1319 with the report of Ewa Girl at Kahe Power Plant. The Kahe haul out is a first for Ewa Girl. Her most recent sighting have been at Campbell Industrial Park, (8-31) so maybe EG is heading back to Hanauma Bay. We shall see !

At 1351 David Schofield called with the report of an animal at Kaupo Beach Park. When I arrived at 1400 , I found Buster at the Makapuu end of the park, right where he has been hauling out of late. I put up the stuff and continued the adventure.

At 1425 on a check from the Makapuu Overview I found Duke at the rubble beach on RI at the far right end of the beach. He had been totally invisible from the pier.

DB Sunday (cont)

DB Post Saturday 9/5/2009

Rabbit Island was the only action today. On my first pass nobody was home, but when I got back to Makai Pier at 0923 I found Kolohe waiting for me at the left end of the beach, 70 ft left of 1BS. His is decaying nicely. His D#4 molt was a conservative 40%. I noticed that his right side natural bleach in now bare, and the Q ball sized white spot is clearly visible. It's a good thing because his dorsal epoxy should be history in a day or two. Kolohe would remain at that location all day.

At 0937 he was joined by Buster , who hauled out fronting 1BS, and galumphed over to join Kolohe. The was only minimal interaction. Both animals remained there together all day.

On a pan at 0948 I found Mikala on the far left end of the beach. She would enter the water at 1340 and after a short swim session, hauled out again, 50 ft left of 1BS.

At 1234 Duke moved up from behind the left side rocks on the rubble beach at the right end. He would remain there by himself the rest of the day.

DB Post Friday 9/4/09

It was another Rabbit Island day with the small critters. Duke spent the day by himself on the rubble beach at the right end.

Mikala hauled out at the left end, left of 1BS at 0959, and at 1125 she was joined by a rapidly rotting Kolohe. His D#3 molt is approximately 15%. They played a bit on the beach, and then did a swim/play session from 1227 until 1327. Kolohe would haul out to 1BS by himself at 1327. Mikala followed at 1411. Kolohe immediately went to meet her as her chubby body cleared the water. All were in snooze mode when I called it a day at 1500.

Team Billand found what would prove to be Benny, amongst rocks at Maili, at 0959.

DB Post Thursday 9/3/09

I arrived at Kaupo Beach Park (KBP) at 0545, to find that Buster had departed. I picked up the stuff and continued the adventure.

Initial checks of Rabbit Island , and the rest of the SE quadrant were a big zero, but when I got back to Makai Research Pier at 0900 I found Mikala just hauling out to the left end of the beach, 80 ft. left of 1BS.

On a pan at 1026 I found Duke at the right end of the beach and only partially visible in a place I call Seal Rock Inlet (SRI) . Partial though the view, I could still see his big beautiful N18 bleach. He would move up with the rising tide , to become fully visible, and remained at that location the rest of the day.

On a pan at 1106 I found Kolohe newly hauled out at the left end, 20 ft left of 1BS. He would galumph to Mikala and they would spend the rest of the day together. There was initial play on the beach, though Mikala did her best to try to get away, Kolohe was doggedly persistent. Ultimately, he would get her into the water for a swim/play session from 1144 until 1242. They would haul out together to the left end at 1242, and Kolohe continued his pursuit of Mikala. Things finally calmed down at 1254, and both went to snooze mode.

Kolohe's D#2 molt progresses quickly. I would guesstimate and conservative 10%.

DB Post Wednesday 9/2

The day got off to a slow start. Despite lots of looking, I didn't find my first animal until 0935. It was Mikala, hauling out 40 ft right of 3BS,at the right end of the beach. She would remain there all day.

At 1106 Duke hauled out 40 ft left of 1BS at the left end of the beach.

At 1150 Kolohe hauled out at the left end of the Middle Cliff (LMC), and after a short stay, reentered the water and hauled out to join Duke. The played a bit on the beach, and then entered the water from 1316 until 1359 for a swim/play session. They were visible in the water the entire time. At 1359 Kolohe hauled out by himself. I could not find Duke again prior to my departure from Makai Research Pier at 1500.

I'm happy to report that Kolohe has begun his molt. The top of his head and his face are bare, and he has a sizeable bare spot on the chest. I would guesstimate a conservative 5%.

At 1604 Tracy called with the report of an animal at Kaupo Beach Park. When I arrived I found Buster on the beach at the Makapuu end. This was exactly the same location as his haul out with Ewa Girl, on 8-10-09.

DB Post (cont)

Calling out Volunteers!!!!

Aloha Good People!

As many of you know our little Kerby is still out there with a hook in his mouth... I was secretly hoping he would make his way back to see papa smurf... but no signs of the little bugger. So please all those in the area.... no matter where you are on Oahu walk the beaches... check out the shorelines when ever you can... anyone willing to make the trek out to Ka'ena point do it...

I would advise if you going to make it out to Ka'ena point contact Jen Maldonado so we can maybe pace the number of people heading out that way... (in other words not everyone do it on the same day or time)...

I look forward to seeing most of you on Sunday at our next volunteer gala and wouldn't it be great to announce that little Kerby is hook free!

THANK YOU ALL FOR SUCH A GREAT SPIRIT! ~donna~

DB Post 9/1/09 Tuesday

On my first look at Rabbit Island, M38 had the place all to himself, to the left of 2BS. When I got back to Makai Pier at 0915 I found that Buster had joined the cast, right of 3BS. M38 was in cruiser mode at that time, and headed toward Buster's location. He hauled out to join Buster at 0933. Surprisingly, there was almost no interaction even though M38 got close. Buster would depart at 1004, and M38 at 1103. I would see neither of them again today.

At 0915 Mikala hauled out to the far left end of the beach. At 1216 she was joined by Duke. They would snooze there the rest of the day.

On a pan at 1114 I found Kolohe, newly arrived on the beach at the right end of the Middle Cliff area. He would remain there the rest of the day.

Barbara Billand did yet another KP trek today. She found Ka'ena, T15M, and a young , Molokai male, RI13. He is mostly seen on Molokai on the Bloy/Pike expeditions, but was reported previously at Ka'ena Point by Joanna Tabor on 12-31-06. This appears to be visit #2.

BB Ka'ena Point Adventure