As many of you will already know, one of the Waikīkī Aquarium's resident Hawaiian monk seals has died. Nuka‘au, commonly referred to as Nuka by Aquarium visitors and staff, was approximately 31 years old, more than 90 years in human terms.

When Nuka arrived at the Aquarium as a juvenile in 1983, he was sporting a large scar on his abdomen, possibly caused by an encounter with a shark or from entanglement in marine debris. It is doubtful he would have survived in the wild.

Instead, with the next 28 years of professional care and loving attention, Nuka provided millions of visitors and kama‘āina alike with an up-close glance at Hawai‘i's state mammal and one of the rarest seals in the world.

With its mission centered around research, education and conservation, the Aquarium is not in favor of keeping animals in captivity for entertainment purposes. During his time with us Nuka was involved in several research projects of Hawaiian monk seal biology. The projects are aimed at improving conservation efforts among the wild population of monk seals. Nuka also played a key role in tens of thousands of education presentations to the public. He was a true ambassador for his species and we have been privileged to have him as part of the Aquarium ‘ohana.

Unfortunately, due to Nuka's sudden and dramatic decline in health and quality of life, and with veterinary advice, we felt obligated to take the difficult decision to euthanize on Aug. 5. Surrounded by Aquarium staff, Nuka's passing was peaceful and painless. With his endearing charm, Nuka was a favorite among staff and visitors at the Waikīkī Aquarium. He will be missed.

Dr. Andrew Rossiter
Director