China Anne McClain finally spoke up after facing backlash for touching some resting sea turtles in Paia, Maui. The 26-year-old found herself in hot water when a video shot by her sister Sierra McClain during their Hawaiian vacation went viral. In the now-removed clip, the Disney star was seen getting close to a bunch of snoozing turtles and gently stroking one on its back.

China Anne McClain, known for her role in Disney's A.N.T. Farm, speaks out after receiving criticism for her interaction with sea turtles

McClain shared a clip on Instagram, saying, “Just discovered this turtle treasure @mynameissisi from our trip to Hawaii. I’ve got loads of other stunning pics from this amazing, healing spot that I might post. Don’t be surprised if I decide to move to Maui someday!” according to the New York Post.

The video racked up over 500,000 views and sparked a wave of comments from upset users worried about the endangered turtles. Hawaii's Governor Josh Green also weighed in, urging McClain to “learn about Hawaii’s laws and the importance of protecting our marine life before coming to our islands,” as reported by the outlet.

“Please take this video down and do better,” Green added in the comments. The guidelines from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) recommend that people keep “at least 10 feet away” from turtles and “avoid touching them.”

McClain has since expressed regret for her actions, claiming the video was taken over two years ago when she was “unaware” of the laws in place. “I didn’t fully grasp the situation until today, and I definitely didn’t know about the regulations,” the A.N.T. Farm star told the DLNR, according to Hawaii News Now.

“It’s the people I don’t want to hurt. I get the importance of respecting culture and the pain that comes from cultural disrespect. We never intend to cross those lines, and that’s what’s really weighing on us right now. I love these beautiful turtles and the people of Hawaii. We’re truly sorry,” McClain added.

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