RH38
Hawaiian Monk Seal
Neomonachus schauinslandi
When Hawaiian monk seal RH38 was spotted on a beach in Kaua‘i, she looked weak and displayed concerning behaviors. Hawaiian monk seals are one of the most endangered animals in the world, so each seal is essential to saving this species from extinction. Thankfully, she was rescued and brought to our hospital that’s dedicated to this endangered species, Ke Kai Ola. Unlike our other monk seal patients, this seal was not given a name out of respect for cultural traditions on Kaua‘i where monk seals are not named, and instead referred to as RH38. At our hospital, experts found that she was battling a series of ailments ranging from kidney stones to a fractured tooth. For our experts to develop a specialized treatment plan for RH38, they utilized advanced medical equipment, performing a CT scan, full body X-rays and ultrasound exams on this seal. During her nearly five months of care, RH38 regained her strength and a healthy amount of weight. Upon release, as soon as RH38’s carrier opened, she knew what she wanted to do… she galumphed straight toward the ocean and dove into the waves.
photo © The Marine Mammal Center / NOAA permit #24359
- Age at Admit
- Adult
- Sex
- Female
- Rescue Location
- Coconut Coast Beach - Kauaʻi
- Diagnosis
- Pneumonia, Trauma, Unknown, Lithiasis, Reproductive abnormality
- Admitted
- 06/25/2023
- Status
- Released
- Release Date
- 11/14/2023
- Release Location
- Kauaʻi
Yes, I want to save a life!
Yes, I want to save a life!
You’ll be giving sick and injured animals the best possible care at the Center’s state-of-the-art hospital. With your gift today, you are giving a patient a second chance at life in the wild.
