Pueo
Sign in to saveAlso known as Asio flammeus sandwichensis
The pueo (Asio flammeus sandwichensis) is a subspecies of the short-eared owl and is endemic to Hawaii. The pueo is one of the more famous of the various physical forms assumed by aumākua (ancestor spirits) in Hawaiian culture.
~5 min read
Encyclopedic overview
6 sectionsContents
- Symbols
- Taxonomy
- Distribution and population
- Threats to survival
- References
- External links
The pueo (Asio flammeus sandwichensis) is a subspecies of the short-eared owl and is endemic to Hawaii. The pueo is one of the more famous of the various physical forms assumed by aumākua (ancestor spirits) in Hawaiian culture.
== Symbols == The pueo (Asio flammeus sandwichensis) has many meanings across the Hawaiian Archipelago. Being an aumakua, Kanaka Maoli may see it as a symbol of protection for their families. In Native Hawaiian culture the Pueo can be seen as a source of guidance, appearing in times of danger; protecting people from distress. "ka pueo kani kaua" (The Owl that sings of war); The Pueo is mentioned in many different stories and chants. This quote comes from a chant for the god Pueo-Nui-Akea who was believed to bring life back to souls who wander around fields.
Excerpted from Wikipedia’s “Pueo” article, available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence.