the audubon society objected to further development on mauna kea over concerns to habitat of the endangered palila, a species endemic to only specific parts of this mountain. the bird is the last of the finch billed honeycreepers existing on the island. over 50% of native bird species had been killed off due to loss of habitat from early western settlers or the introduction of non-native species competing for resources. hunters and sportsmen were concerned that the hunting of feral animals would be affected by the telescope operations. a "save mauna kea" movement was inspired by the proliferation of telescopes, with opposition believing development of the mountain to be sacrilegious. native hawaiian non-profit groups, such as kahea, whose goals are the protection of cultural heritage and the environment, oppose development on mauna kea as a sacred space to the hawaiian religion. today, mauna kea hosts the world's largest location for telescope observations in infrared and submillimeter astronomy. the land is protected by the united states historical preservation act due to its significance to hawaiian culture, but still allowed development.