Visitor Information: Endangered Species in Hawaii
Recently in the news there have been reports of visitors who were fined for touching and harassing endangered species in Hawaii. This really hurts my heart as these marine animals are defenseless and the videos were posted on their social media accounts.
I know it may be tempting, there is a rush of excitement in trying to pet a wild animal, and the monk seal or sea turtle might look really cute and friendly. Naturally, when we see something fascinating we have an almost uncontrollable urge to reach out and touch it, but please refrain from doing so! Wild animals are very unpredictable.
Hawaii has earned the title “endangered species capital of the world.” Officially Hawaii is home to over 400 endangered species. On the top of that list are the Hawaiian Monk Seal, Green Sea Turtle, Spinner Dolphin, Humpback Whale, and Nene Goose. However, Hawaii is home to a variety of endangered birds, mammals, arthropods, reptiles, snails, and plants.
Violations will result in fines up to $50,000, and 5 years in prison. Endangered species are protected under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and NOAA encourages the public to view sea turtles and monk seals responsibly from a distance of 10 feet (3 meters).
Under Hawaii State Law “it is unlawful for any person to “take” an endangered or threatened species of aquatic life, wildlife, or land plant. “Take” means to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect endangered or threatened species of aquatic life or wildlife, or to cut, collect, uproot, destroy, injure, or possess endangered or threatened species of aquatic life or land plants, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct (Section 195D-2, HRS).”
Please stay safe, enjoy your stay in Hawaii, and give wildlife lots of room. More information can be found here: