Endangered Species Guide : Mammals : Animal Planet

Endangered Mammals

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HAWAIIAN MONK SEAL (Monachus schauinslandi)

Seals are pinnipeds, all of which are specially adapted to an aquatic lifestyle. They are found worldwide in the temperate and polar seas, and most species breed on land in large colonies. The Hawaiian monk seal gets its name from its loose neck skin that resembles a monk's robe. It is currently threatened by hunting, habitat loss and disturbances to its breeding grounds by humans.

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IUCN Status: Endangered
USFWS Status: Endangered
Major Threats: Habitat loss and disturbance to breeding grounds
Habitat: Temperate and polar seas
Location: Northwestern Hawaiian islands
Diet: Fish and various marine invertebrates

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