The phenomenon of “exploding whales” often sparks public fascination. While the term “explosion” can be misleading, the decomposition processes within a deceased whale can indeed lead to a forceful rupture.
Why Dead Whales Swell and Burst
When a whale dies, decomposition begins immediately, driven by bacteria. These microorganisms, particularly in the whale’s gut, break down tissues and organs. As they metabolize organic matter, they produce gases like methane, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, and carbon dioxide. The whale’s thick blubber and robust skin effectively trap these gases within the body cavity.
As decomposition progresses, the continuous production of gases causes immense internal pressure, leading the carcass to bloat. This pressure builds until it exceeds the structural integrity of the whale’s tissues. The resulting event is typically a rupture, where the carcass bursts at its weakest point, rather than a combustion-driven explosion. The forceful release expels foul-smelling gases, fluids, and internal organs.
When Whales Have Exploded
While spontaneous ruptures do occur due to gas buildup, some of the most widely reported “exploding whale” incidents have involved human intervention. A notable example took place in Florence, Oregon, in November 1970, when a 45-foot-long, eight-ton sperm whale carcass washed ashore. State highway officials, lacking experience with such a large disposal, decided to use a half-ton of dynamite to disintegrate the whale, hoping scavengers would then clear the smaller pieces.
The detonation, captured on video, caused chunks of blubber and flesh to rain down over a wide area, damaging a car parked a quarter-mile away and covering spectators. This incident served as a cautionary tale, demonstrating the unpredictable and messy outcomes of using explosives on whale carcasses. Another documented instance of a dramatic rupture occurred in 2004 in Taiwan, when a 60-tonne sperm whale carcass, being transported for research, spontaneously exploded on a city street, scattering its contents across vehicles and shops.
How Carcasses Are Handled
Managing large whale carcasses that wash ashore presents logistical challenges for authorities. One common disposal strategy involves towing the carcass out to sea, allowing it to decompose naturally in deeper waters. This method allows the whale to become a “whale fall,” contributing nutrients to deep-sea ecosystems. However, towing is not always feasible, especially for very large whales or in areas with strong currents that might bring the carcass back to shore.
Another method is burying the whale on the beach, which requires adequate space and machinery. This can be a labor-intensive process, and concerns sometimes arise about potential odors or the leaching of fluids. In rare cases, such as the infamous Oregon incident, controlled demolition has been attempted, though this is now largely discouraged due to the risks and unpredictable dispersal of remains. Most often, decisions on disposal balance safety, environmental impact, and practicality based on the specific circumstances.
Safety and Ecological Considerations
Decomposing whale carcasses pose several risks, including biohazards from bacteria and viruses that can be transmitted to humans. Physical danger from a spontaneous rupture also exists. Foul odors produced by gases like hydrogen sulfide can be overwhelming and, in high concentrations, may cause health issues like dizziness or respiratory problems.
Beached whales can also attract scavengers, including sharks, which may increase risks for beachgoers. However, in their natural marine environment, decomposing whales play a significant ecological role. When a whale carcass sinks to the deep ocean floor, it creates a “whale fall,” providing a substantial and long-lasting food source for a unique community of deep-sea organisms. These whale falls support diverse life for decades, cycling nutrients and carbon within the deep-sea ecosystem.