Dr. Robin Baird, Research Biologist with Cascadia Research Collective

Knowledge of dolphins and whales in Papahānaumokuākea has lagged behind what is known of these species from around the main Hawaiian Islands. But studies in the main Hawaiian Islands can be used to infer how dolphins and whales may use the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands based on what is known from sighting surveys, acoustics, and some limited tagging studies. This presentation will highlight what is and isn’t known about some of the dolphin and whale species that use Papahānaumokuākea, including resident spinner dolphins and false killer whales, and likely resident Bryde’s whales, bottlenose dolphins, and Cuvier’s beaked whales. Tagging studies off Kaua‘i have shown linkages between the main Hawaiian Islands and Papahānaumokuākea, with false killer whales from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands population moving between them. Populations of most other species seem likely to use one or the other area, given the ecological differences between the two areas. Much remains to be learned!

Please reserve your seat, as space is limited:

https://waikikiaquarium.eventbrite.com

Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument Event

Waikīkī Aquarium, in partnership with NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument and other community partners, is hosting this public event to celebrate 10 years of Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On July 30, 2010, Papahānaumokuākea was inscribed as a mixed World Heritage site for its outstanding natural and cultural attributes. World Heritage sites safeguard for humanity the most universal and significant aspects of our global natural and cultural heritage. Papahānaumokuākea was the first mixed UNESCO World Heritage site in the United States and the second World Heritage Site in Hawai‘i.

Festivities at Waikīkī Aquarium will include ocean education and sustainability activities featuring the islands and atolls of Papahānaumokuākea. Artist and special guest Patrick Ching will be on hand to unveil a new Papahānaumokuākea coloring book. Entertainment by Leon & Malia and Storybook Theatre of Hawaii!!

This event is included with regular Aquarium admission.