PO'IPU, Kaua'i — A Hawaiian monk seal pup born on a Po'ipu beach has begun swimming, and wildlife officials are making preparations for when mother and infant begin moving up and down the beaches — requiring that fences and public education programs move with them.

Meanwhile, observers reported there may be two pregnant seals frequenting nearby beaches, so it's possible the south Kaua'i shore could have as many as three sections of beach roped off to protect the endangered marine mammals.

Mimi Olry, Kaua'i marine mammal coordinator, said one pregnant seal was spotted near the Hyatt Regency Kaua'i. Another pregnant seal was seen nearby last week, according to Olry.

It's possible it was the same seal, but in each case the seal was so covered in sand after climbing up on the beach that it was difficult to identify, she said.

Trained volunteers keep a 24-hour watch on mother-and-pup pairs to protect them from stray dogs and other threats, and to safeguard beachgoers from protective mother seals, which can become belligerent.