Pit Bull Attacks Big Island Monk Seal
July 31, 2010
Hawaiian Monk Seals are among the most endangered marine mammals in the world. Only about 4 or 5 live on the Big Island!
The following report was received from the Hilo Marine Mammal Response Network:
Aloha all,
Unfortunately, a monk seal was attacked by a Pit Bull earlier today (Friday, July 30) in the Kau region. Reports from the NOAA law enforcement agency say the attack lasted for about a minute until the seal retreated into the ocean. The extent of injury is unknown, and very little information is currently known about this matter. If you have any information (location attack may have taken place, name of dog owner, recent seal sightings, etc.) please contact our monk seal line at 808-756-5961, or email hmmrn@hawaii.edu .
Also, this attack reminds us that each individual seal is crucial to the survival of the species. There are only ~1,100 seals left, and the number declines each year. If you see a seal, please remember to be respectful and call the hot line above, but send us photos that may assist in the photo-identification of the seal.
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