ʻĪlioholoikauaua

The Hawaiian monk seal is one of the rarest marine mammals in the world, and its long Hawaiian name, ʻīlioholoikauaua, is often translated as the dog that runs in rough water. On land, though, it mostly looks like a creature devoted to naps.

A resting seal needs space more than admiration. From a respectful distance, you can see sand drying on its back, whiskers moving with each breath, and the quiet miracle of a wild neighbor safe enough to sleep.