ESR 20:137-146 (2013)  -  DOI: https://doi.org/10.3354/esr00491

ABSTRACT: Divergent trends in population abundance of Endangered Hawaiian monk seals Monachus schauinslandi are apparent between the northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI) and the main Hawaiian Islands (MHI). The smaller, recently established MHI seal population is increasing, exhibits higher juvenile survival, and seals appear to be in better condition overall relative to seals in the NWHI. Using traditional dietary analysis we characterize the diet of MHI monk seals for the first time and examine the hypothesis that diet and prey availability may be driving these regional trends. Prey remains from feces and regurgitates (n = 120) were identified to the lowest possible taxonomic level and compared with results from NWHI historical data. The most common prey taxa, by percent frequency of occurrence, were Balistidae (48.3%), Crustacea (37.5%), Acanthuridae (32.5%), Muraenidae (30.8%), Serranidae (20.8%), Cephalopoda (18.3%), Holocentridae (17.5%), Labridae (16.7%), and Scaridae (10.8%). Results indicate that MHI and NWHI seals eat similar diets; however, an incongruity in body conditions of seals between regions indicates a possible difference in intra- or inter-specific competition, prey availability, and quality. Further research assessing foraging behavior and habitat use would aid in identifying the regional differences observed.

KEY WORDS: Monachus schauinslandi · Fecal prey remains · Diet assessment · Hawaiian Islands