Scientific name : Neomonachus schauinslandi
Family : Phocidae
Native to : North-West Hawaiian Islands
Interesting fact : During mating males attack females, called mobbing, sometimes even killing them.
Conservation status : Endangered
Hawaiian monk seals prefer tropical waters unlike most seals that prefer cold waters. They are excellent swimmers adapted with large hind flippers and small front ones. They grow 7-8 feet long and weigh 300-600 pounds. They feed on bony fish, cephalopods and crustaceans. Females nurse pups for 6 weeks, never leaving the beach. Lifespan is 25-30 years.
