The senseless crimes committed against this endangered endemic species have most recently captured the attention of The New York Times Magazine, which will feature “Who’s Killing The Monk Seals?” in Sunday’s edition. 

The aggressive red magazine cover with bold black lettering portrays the silhouette of a seal bludgeoned in the head — the fate too many have suffered in Hawaii, especially of late.

The story’s author, Jon Mooallem, says the word “assassination” came to mind when he was reporting the piece. It’s an accurate description of an indefensible act.

I’ve been writing about monk seal murders for the past few years along with my former colleagues at The Garden Island newspaper and other local media.

Here’s to hoping the Times piece brings broader awareness of the issue that results in stopping this trend. 

Read the NYT story online by clicking here.

— Nathan Eagle

A monk seal rests on a rock at Kaena Point in June 2012. (Photo by Nathan Eagle.)