The abandoned monk seal pup that was found May 2 on Kaua'i is feeding well and has gained weight, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said today.

The monk seal, which is being cared for by scientists at NOAA's station at Kewalo Basin, was physically active yesterday and swam in its pool. Officials reported the pup is 35 pounds and suspect a change in formula is responsible for the weight gain. The pup was 32.5 pounds when it was rescued, and initially, experts gave him only a 50 percent chance of survival.

"Although things are looking positive, it is still too early" to say that it's in the clear, said NOAA spokeswoman Wende Goo via e-mail. "We all remain hopeful."

The seal pup was found on a beach in a remote area of Kaua'i's north shore. A team arrived and found the pup alone. A male and female monk seal joined the pup but attempts to get the female to accept the pup were unsuccessful.