Residents on Maui
spot large, catlike beast
OLINDA, Hawaii >> A large animal, believed to weigh as much as 100 pounds and resemble a cat, has been reported in the lower Olinda area, according to the Maui Invasive Species Committee.
The committee has received eight reports of the animal since December, three of which have been sightings. The most recent report came Monday.
All the reports described the animal as catlike, dark brown, with a large head and a long tail.
The state Department of Land & Natural Resources and the committee are trying to trap the animal based on the sightings.
Residents of the area are being asked to report any sightings of the animal, unusual animals or dead animals to the committee.
Officials are also warning residents not to approach the large animal and to take safety precautions for their family, pets and livestock.