The recent deaths of four monk seals in Hawaii made national headlines this weekend.

The Huffington Post, MSNBC and UPI were just a few of the outlets picking up news that federal and state officials are investigating possible foul play in the deaths of the endangered mammals. An article from the Associated Press was picked up by dozens of outlets, including Chinese and New Zealand news sites. 

Civil Beat’s previous coverage of the issue can be found here:

Third Monk Seal Found Dead on Molokai

Proposed Protections for Hawaii Monk Seals Could Have Broad Implications

Fishermen Oppose Extra Protections for Hawaiian Monk Seals

Lingle Opposes Proposed Expansion of Monk Seal Protections

State Lawmakers Threaten to Fight Proposed Monk Seal Protections

Thielen Takes Stand Against Added Protections for Hawaii Monk Seals

FACT CHECK – Lingle: Feds Didn’t Give Enough Notice On Monk Seal Rule

State, Federal Government Must Collaborate on Monk Seal Protections