MonkSealMania.blogspot.com: 10/28/2018 Monk Seal Dailies:

Sunday, October 28, 2018

10/28/2018 Monk Seal Dailies:

Today's dailies are brought to you by Marilyn, Melody and a quick sighting by Team Billand.

Mail from Melody brought news of an exciting find today on the westside. She and Dana were out checking different areas and they were surprised to find Ipo RI37, who has rarely been seen on the west side. Many are aware that RI37 is one of Honey Girl's R5AYs kids, and sadly RI37 has not been able to successfully give birth (that we know of).

Interestingly enough Team Billand spent a quick visit with RI37 Ipo today. I know Barbara must have been thrilled seeing her again on the west side! Barbara included a couple of photos from 2010 when Ipo was injured (to what is believed to be a gash from a motor blade) PLEASE be aware the photo is difficult to look at, but what is truly amazing is monk seals ability to heal. It is unknown if this injury has contributed to her birthing problems or if there is another cause.

Marilyn was back at the pier watching over Rabbit Island. She spent about two hours and initially found four critters spread out along the island, and then a 5th seal moved down from the morning glory about half hour after arriving. In all there were three unknown males, one unknown/unknown and RK38 Hali'a.
UM#1: located about 20 ft Kailua side of the 1BS; subadult to adult, 2 tags, male belly and new coat.
UM#2: located about 20 ft Makapuu side of the 3BS; adult male with at least one tag, older darker coat (might be close to molting). The seal probably overnighted in the morning glory.

UM#3: located near SRI, subadult to adult, male belly, 2 tags, newer coat.
UU: this seal was behind the waterfront rocks at the Makapuu side of Rocky Right Beach. The coat appeared to be newer. There was never a good view that revealed size, tags or sex.
RK38 Hali'a: came down from the morning glory shortly after she arrived. Weaner size and coat, 2 tags, female belly. There was no natural bleach of RK37 so that leaves weaner RK38.

Marilyn noted that R1KT and RG32 are possible for UM#1 and UM#2 but there is no proof.

RI37 Ipo