Some 300 volunteers fanned out across the Islands between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. today for the fourth semi-annual Monk Seal Count — a two-year-old program aimed at tracking the endangered Hawaiian Monk Seal on the same times and dates on each of the main Hawaiian Islands.

A primary purpose is to draw attention to and educate the public about Hawaiian Monk Seals, said David Schofield, regional marine mammal response coordinator for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries.

"There are fewer than 1,100 of these seals that are known to exist — only 100 of them being in the main Hawaiian Islands," said Schofield. "And they are declining at a rate of 4 percent a year."

By tracking them twice a year with volunteer help, Schofield said the hope is that researchers can learn enough about the seals to stem the rate of decline and perhaps even begin to increase their numbers.

Anyone wanting to volunteer or learn more about the program can call 220-7802.