Where Research Begins Scientific research is often a long-term commitment; some studies take years, even decades, to complete. At Pacific Whale Foundation (PWF), some of our research has been ongoing for over 45 years. This enduring dedication reflects our mission: to protect whale and dolphin populations through a powerful blend of science, education, and conservation. … Continued
The Global Movement That Saved the Whales Whales have long stirred the human imagination. From their presence in Hawaiian legends to their portrayal in classics like Moby-Dick, these giants of the sea embody both mystery and inspiration. Yet by the late 1970s, reality overshadowed myth: humpback whales were on the brink of extinction. In the … Continued
A juvenile false killer whale, its face clearly visible, documented by Selket Kaufman alongside the Pacific Whale Foundation research team. What is a False Killer Whale? Despite their name, false killer whales (FKW) are not whales at all—they’re actually part of the dolphin family. Known as blackfish, these sleek, intelligent marine mammals were named for … Continued
Recently, Pacific Whale Foundation member and donor Erick Wand spotted an entangled whale off the west coast of Maui and took action. Read about the encounter below. Mahalo Erick. His story highlights the fact that anyone can make a difference! It’s up to all of us. Check out our wildlife viewing guidelines and reporting numbers … Continued
On January 19, 2022, off the coast of Maui, Hawai‘i, an unprecedented event was recorded for the first time — two humpback whales copulating. While this observation is remarkable on its own, this story has a remarkable twist – the encounter involved two male whales. Humpback whales have long been subjects of fascination for researchers … Continued
During a tranquil lunch on the ocean, following our morning transect surveys, our research team witnessed an unexpected event in the midst of observing a nearby group of humpback whales. The team realized that the whales were headed toward them and decided to put their camera in the water to document the behavior. What they … Continued
As another year of protecting the ocean through science and advocacy and inspiring environmental stewardship comes to a close, Pacific Whale Foundation (PWF) takes a look back at some of 2022’s greatest accomplishments in our Research, Education and Conservation programs. Research Research activities conducted under appropriate research permits and following animal ethics approval. The drone … Continued
Members of Pacific Whale Foundation’s Research team recently attended the 24th Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals in Florida. This important conference brought together scientists, policymakers, managers and advocates for five days of presentations, workshops and constructive dialogue. Four team members attended the conference with support from PWF Member Grant Crosby who donated … Continued
Ocean Guardians, created by PWF Documentary Filmmaker Selket Kaufman, recounts the journey of humpback whales as they migrate between Alaska and Hawai‘i while illuminating PWF’s ongoing work to save the species and restore the delicate balance between humankind and marine life.
Today, May 20, is Endangered Species Day, a day to celebrate, learn about and take action to protect threatened and endangered species. One of Pacific Whale Foundation’s (PWF) top research priorities is studying the endangered population of false killer whales found in Hawai‘i. False killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens) are a large species of dolphin belonging … Continued
