Ancient Hawaiians believed animals embodied ancestral spirits that acted as family guardians, called aumakua. An aumakua could manifest itself in any animal form such as the honu (sea turtle), mo'o (lizard), mano (shark), or pueo (owl). Today, aumakua are still remembered with fondness and should always be treated with utmost respect. Many animals that are sacred to Hawaiians are considered endangered species including the North Pacific Humpback Whale, Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle, and the Hawaiian Monk Seal. The Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act mandate viewing these animals from a distance of at least 20 feet or more.
