01/31/2026
A 136-kilogram (300-pound) whale placenta was just found floating at the ocean’s surface off Hawaiʻi — a discovery so rare that many marine scientists may never encounter one in their careers.
Researchers from Pacific Whale Foundation initially thought they were approaching floating debris. Instead, they realized they had stumbled upon a fully intact whale placenta — something that usually sinks almost immediately after birth. “This tissue typically sinks quickly after being released from the mother,” explained chief scientist Jens Currie, making the find exceptionally unusual. The presence of a large section of umbilical cord suggested the birth had occurred very recently, even though the mother and calf were no longer nearby.
Under federal research permits, the team carefully recovered the placenta and transported it for scientific study in collaboration with the University of Hawaiʻi Health and Strandings Lab and Griffith University. Only about 1% of the tissue was sampled. Scientists will analyze it for contaminants like microplastics, mercury, and PFAS — offering rare insight into maternal health, fetal development, and how pollution may affect whales before birth.
Beyond science, the moment carried deep cultural meaning. In Hawaiian tradition, such biological material is sacred. Guided by Indigenous cultural practitioners Kiaʻi Kanaloa, the team followed strict protocols to ensure respect. After research is complete, the placenta will be returned to the ocean at the exact location it was found, accompanied by traditional prayers and offerings — honoring both scientific responsibility and cultural stewardship.
