Can you imagine the panic and outrage if suddenly 500,000 United States citizens were murdered? That would be two out of every 1200 Americans.
In Hawaii, two Hawaiian monk seals have been savagely shot, one on April 19, 2009 and one on May 21, 2009. The entire population of these majestic creatures is only 1200. The loss of two, including a pregnant female, is tragic. It is beyond comprehension of why presumably two locals would commit such a crime, and yes, it is a crime. The Hawaiian monk seal is an endangered species.
The Surfrider Foundation's Kauai chapter is offering a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the shooting death of these two Hawaiian monk seals.
When visitors to Hawaii chance upon seeing a Hawaiian monk seal resting on the beach it is a wonderful and rare experience which should be long remembered and cherished.
All visitors to Hawaii should learn something about these wonderful creatures and understand their responsibilities should they encounter one. I urge you to read our feature on Hawaiian Monk Seals.
Image © Kathy Laughlin/iStock Photo
The Kaua‘i Monk Seal Watch Program is a nonprofit organization whose funding is entirely used to heighten monk seal awareness.
http://directoryofkauai.net/blog/kauai-monk-seal-watch-program
Their bottom line is that education instills knowledge, and knowledge is the key to preserving Hawaiian monk seals.