Endangered Hawaiian Monk Seal Bludgeoned to Death, Prompting Investigation and Reward Offer

Hawaiian monk seal Malama was found dead from blunt force trauma in what officials believe was an intentional killing.
Malama was a juvenile seal that had previously been rescued and rehabilitated before being released back to the wild.
With only about 1,570 Hawaiian monk seals left in the wild, the species is critically endangered.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
The intentional killing of an endangered species can lead to criminal prosecution and civil penalties.