Small populations also occur at Necker and Nihoa Islands. However, little is known of their offshore habits or distribution. Threats to the Species Like the Caribbean and Mediterranean monk seals, the Hawaiian monk seal was easily exploited by hunters, whalers and fishers in the 1800s. The Hawaiian monk seal, like the other monk seal species, is sensitive to human disturbance and habitat loss. A captive breeding program is also advocated by some scientists.
Adults are silvery-grey on the back, fading to cream on the throat, chest and belly.
Additional light patches may also be found on the body. Over time, the coat looks brown above and yellow below. Males, and some females, turn a dark brown or black with age. Some Hawaiian monk seals have a red or green tinge from algal growth. Monk seals tend to be solitary, both on land and in the water.