HONOLULU (KHON2) — Rocky, or RH58, is famed for having birthed pups on the beloved Hawaiian Islands for years. Her most recent miracle was born at Sand Island and deemed the name ‘Ili‘ili, or PO10.
‘Ili‘ili means small, smooth stones or pebbles, in reference to his mom, Rocky.
Rocky and ‘Ili‘ili have been enjoying their nursing period on Sand Island, but with ‘Ili‘ili getting close to his seven week mark, this chapter they share together will soon end.
‘Ili‘ili will soon be ready to begin his journey as an independent seal and mom, Rocky, will go back out to sea to regain her weight by foraging.
Due to Sand Island’s popularity, NOAA Fisheries has decided that the cons outweigh the pros, and it’s in ‘Ili‘ili’s best interest to be moved to a safer location, awake from people and other risks.
“He will move to a more remote Oʻahu shoreline, as we’ve done with previous pups born in high-risk areas,” said NOAA Fisheries on their website. “We believe this move gives ‘Iliʻili the best chance to grow up wild and healthy.”
For the full update and more information on how to help keep this endangered species safe, visit, the NOAA Fisheries website.