Hawaiian Monk Seal Vaccination Program

The video discusses a unique program by NOAA to vaccinate Hawaiian monk seals against morbillivirus, a disease that poses a significant threat to their population. The program involves using a spring-loaded syringe to safely administer vaccines to the seals without disturbing them. The video highlights the importance of this preventative measure, given the limited number of monk seals and the potential for a devastating outbreak. It also covers the seals' habitat, the challenges faced by the program, and the techniques used to ensure the safety of both the seals and the researchers.

What makes the Hawaiian monk seal vaccination program unique?

• It is the only program vaccinating a large marine mammal population.

• It is the first program to use drones for vaccination.

• It is the only program that vaccinates animals in zoos.

• It is the first program to vaccinate land mammals.

Where do Hawaiian monk seals exclusively live?

• In the waters of the Caribbean Sea.

• In the waters of the Arctic Ocean.

• In the waters of the Hawaiian Islands.

• In the waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

What is the estimated number of Hawaiian monk seals left?

• Between 1500 and 1600

• Between 1200 and 1300

• Between 800 and 900

• Between 500 and 600

What is a morbilli virus that affects humans?

• Rabies

• Measles

• Influenza

• Canine distemper

What is the main goal of the vaccination program?

• To entertain tourists.

• To prevent a morbilli virus outbreak.

• To increase the seal population.

• To train seals for performances.

Why is the vaccination tool used in the program beneficial?

• It allows for faster vaccination.

• It keeps the seals entertained.

• It maintains a safe distance from the seals.

• It is cheaper than other methods.

How do most seals react to the vaccination process?

• They become very vocal and alert.

• They swim away quickly.

• They ignore it and go back to sleep.

• They become aggressive.

What is the primary reason for using a spring-loaded syringe on a pole?

• To vaccinate multiple seals at once.

• To ensure the safety of both humans and seals.

• To reduce the cost of vaccinations.

• To make the process faster.

What is the focus of the program's future efforts?

• To entertain visitors.

• To fix things that are going wrong.

• To implement preventative measures.

• To train seals for shows.

What is the demeanor of the seal pups described in the program?

• Playful and energetic

• Tiny but ferocious

• Calm and relaxed

• Shy and timid