Shark Predation on Hawaiian Monk Seals Workshop Honolulu, Hawaii January 8-9, 2008

The workshop was convened primarily to address the ongoing problem of Galapagos shark predation on preweaned Hawaiian monk seal pups at French Frigate Shoals (FFS) in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI). This predation was first observed on a large scale at Trig and Whaleskate Islands in 1997–1999 (map: Appendix A) and has persisted at varying degrees since that time. Various types of mitigation have been attempted, including harassment, translocation of weaned pups, and removal of predatory sharks. While these methods appear to have been partially successful in reducing predation, predation remains at unacceptable levels and is believed to constitute an impediment to recovery of this declining population. The workshop was therefore convened to examine the dynamics and history of Galapagos shark predation on monk seal pups, and to investigate the full range of mitigation options that might be applicable to the situation at FFS. 

The workshop was chaired by Dr. John Reynolds, Chairman of the Marine Mammal Commission. Participants included representatives of key agencies with jurisdictions in the NWHI, shark ecologists, and researchers with expertise in recent innovations in the field of nonlethal shark deterrents (see Participant List, Appendix C). The workshop was structured around presentations conducted by PIFSC and visiting scientists, with abundant time devoted to moderated discussions. Abstracts were assembled from transcribed notes, as supplemented and reviewed by each presenter.  The workshop culminated in a general evaluation of all mitigation alternatives proposed during the workshop. 

Harting AL. 2010. Shark Predation on Hawaiian Monk Seals Workshop Honolulu, Hawaii January 8-9, 2008. National Oceanic Atmospheric Agency Administrative Report H-10-02C 36 p.