Hawaii (KHON2) — State officials are urging the public to stay out of the water along Molokaʻi’s south shore after the remains of a humpback whale washed ashore, raising concerns about public safety and attracting large marine predators
The Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Reack whale died July 10 after she and her calf spent more than two months in a protected reef area off the island
Researchers investigate whale carcass at Waimanalo Beach
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Officials said the calf has not been seen since the mother’s death
According to DLNR, tides continue to carry the whale’s remains along portions of Molokaʻi’s south shore, including areas commonly used by fishers and commercial tour operators
“The Department of Land and Natural Re’s recommendation,” said DAR Protected Species Program Lead Jordan Lerma. “We will continue working closely with Kiaʻi Kanaloa Molokaʻi, the community and our county, state and federal partners to monitor the site and respond as needed if conditions change or concerns arise related to public health, safety, navigation, or the surrounding environment.”
Officials said the whale was known to researchers through the Happywhale photo-identification catalog as “Twinning.” She was last documented off British Columbia in Oct. 2025 before migrating to Hawaiʻi, where her calf was born between late January and early February
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DLNR is asking the public to follow several safety precautions:
Stay out of the water near the whale remains because large predators feeding on the carcass pose a significant danger
Watch for signs of whale remains, including oil slicks, blubber on the shoreline and a strong odor of decay
Do not approach, touch or interact with the carcass or any whale remains found on the beach or in the water
Respect cultural guidance by avoiding sensational or exploitative photos and videos of the whale
Leave any whale remains where they are found. Officials said they will naturally biodegrade and help nourish Hawaiʻi’s ocean and coastal ecosystems
Anyone who spots the whale remains or has concerns about marine wildlife is asked to contact the NOAA Marine Wildlife Hotline at 888-256-9840
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