A Viral Hawaiian Monk Seal Changes The Conversation On Molokaʻi
Summary
A young Hawaiian monk seal named RU99 began staying near a local resident’s home on Moloka‘i, drawing attention on social media and helping change local views about the endangered seals. The island faces challenges with seal killings and misunderstandings about the animals, which are among the world’s rarest.Key Facts
- RU99 is a one-year-old Hawaiian monk seal that appeared in a resident’s yard in Kapaʻakea, Moloka‘i.
- The seal’s presence and social media posts by Hawaiiloa Mowat, a local resident, have positively influenced community attitudes.
- Hawaiian monk seals are endangered, with about 1,600 left in the wild, around 400 living near the Main Hawaiian Islands.
- Moloka‘i has had problems with people harming seals, including deliberate killings and suspicious deaths.
- Previously, a seal named RL80 was found with a bullet and later died due to injuries from fishing gear.
- Federal officials monitor seal deaths and investigate incidents involving harm to the seals.
- Some local fishers believe seals compete with them for fish, contributing to local tensions.
- Efforts by volunteers and officials focus on protecting seals and educating the community about their importance.
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