2 Molokai Seals Dead from ‘Human-Inflicted Trauma’
By Catherine Cluett Pactol
Two endangered Hawaiian Monk Seals were found dead on the west end of Molokai on April 27, and state and federal officials are investigating the circumstances surrounding their deaths. Post-mortem exam results indicate that both seals died as a result of “human-inflicted trauma,” the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced last week.
There was no indication of disease or other health concerns, officials reported, and both seals were sighted the previous week appearing to be in good health.
The 4-year-old male seal known as RJ08 and 3-year-old female, RK92, were both born on Molokai and were known to spend time on Molokai’s west side.…