Department of Land and Natural Resources
Officials closed Waimanalo Bay Beach Park and warned people to stay out of the water after sharks were seen eating the carcass of a Hawaiian humpback whale that has since washed ashore and been removed.
At least three large tiger sharks were seen eating the whale remains as it drifted closer to the shore Tuesday, the Department of Land and Natural Resources said. The carcass landed on the beach later in the day, but warning signs remained Wednesday.
The 25- to 35-ton carcass was removed early Wednesday by local, state and federal authorities.
A Hawaiian blessing was held by Kalani Kalima of Waimānalo prior to the whale's burial on private land, according to the City and County of Honolulu.