HONOLULU – The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is increasing enforcement of beach leash laws after recent incidents highlighting the critical need to protect endangered Hawaiian monk seal pups during their peak pupping season.
On Saturday, the DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) issued a civil resource violation to a 43-year-old woman for having an off-leash dog on a state park beach. Photographs showed the dog freely roaming with a group of people. Two other individuals received citations for the same offense on the same day, each carrying a $100 fine.
The initial incident involved an off-leash dog running directly at Holokai (RG40), a resting Hawaiian monk seal on Oʻahu’s North Shore. The encounter caused the male seal to retreat into the water. A DOCARE officer and a Hawaiʻi Marine Animal Response (HMAR) volunteer then approached the group with the dog.
Understanding Beach Dog Regulations
It’s crucial for the public to understand that dogs, whether leashed or not, are generally prohibited within most Hawaiʻi state parks. The only exception is for service dogs. Furthermore, dogs are never allowed on beaches under the jurisdiction of the DLNR Division of State Parks. The same stringent rules apply to state Natural Area Reserves, which fall under the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW).
Why Leash Laws are Paramount During Pupping Season
Hawaiian monk seals are afforded protection under both state and federal laws. Violations can lead to warnings, citations, or more severe penalties, depending on the specifics and severity of each case.
This period, from March through August, marks the peak pupping season for Hawaiian monk seals. So far, 11 pups have been born on Oʻahu this year. Pups are born on sandy shorelines across the state, making this a profoundly vulnerable time for these rare marine mammals.
With an estimated population of only 1,600 individuals, the endemic Hawaiian monk seal’s survival hinges significantly on pup survival. Off-leash dogs pose a serious threat to these fragile pups. Even well-intentioned or curious dogs can inadvertently injure or kill a young seal. Conversely, monk seals, being wild animals with powerful jaws, can inflict severe wounds, broken bones, or infections on dogs if a protective mother feels threatened. Disturbances can also cause seals to abandon their pups or birth beaches.
Call to Action for Dog Owners
Dog walkers are strongly urged to always keep their dogs leashed and to avoid areas where monk seals are known to rest or nurse their pups. It is imperative to adhere to all posted signs and guidance provided by marine wildlife officials. The City and County of Honolulu provides a list of designated on- and off-leash dog parks around Oʻahu for safe pet recreation.
Community awareness and responsible behavior are vital for the recovery of Hawaiian monk seals. With everyone’s kōkua (help), these endangered seal pups can grow up safely and contribute to future generations of the species.