Seeing spots

While snorkeling this morning, we saw lots of spots.  Two spotted species who superficially look quite similar are in two different families.

The spotted boxfish (Hawaiian name: moa) is a small fish, less than 6 inches long, in the boxfish (or trunkfish) family.  These fish have complex bony skeletons composed of plates that are fused into a carapace.

The spotted puffer (Hawaiian name: o'opu hue) is larger, reaching up to 13 inches.  It belongs to the puffer family, named for their ability to enlarge their bodies when alarmed.

We also found a cowrie with spots (not sure about the species).  We thought that it might still be alive, so after a brief photo opportunity, we returned it to the coral rock. 

Time to get out of the water.  Stay dry!

A few more fish

This morning, we encountered quite a few houndfish (a type of needlefish, Hawaiian name: 'aha) swimming just beneath the surface of the water.  They are always fun to find, especially when we can get close to them.  These were about 14 inches long.

We also saw a stripebelly puffer (Hawaiian naame: o'opu hue).  This fish was about 16 inches long.

On shore, I found a solitary sandpiper.  It was carrying a small, transparent, juvenile fish in its bill.

North end

This morning, we headed to the north shore.  It's pretty steep up there, and not the place to go looking for a beach.  But it is beautiful country and peaceful compared to the tourist-laden sites around Kona.

Our first stop was Kawi for coffee, then on to Kapa'au to visit the statue of the famous, beloved King Kamehameha I.

Our next stop was to Pololu Valley Lookout.  From the lookout, a steep trail descends to the rocky beach below.  While we have hiked down there in the past, this year I only went down part of the trail.

We drove over the Kohala Mountains, seeing snow atop Mauna Kea, then on to Waimea for lunch.