Hawaiian Monk Seal

This Hawaiian Monk seal was snoozing with his face in the surf on Poipu Beach in Kauai, HI. Monk seals are one of only a few species that live in warm tropical waters. Their Hawaiian name is "Ilio holo I ka uaua" which means, "dog who runs in rough water." Monk seals are an endangered species. They spend most of their life in the water but come ashore to rest. It's very important never to disturb a resting Monk seal.