Rare Whale Washes Ashore in Otago

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On July 4, a rare whale washed up on a beach near Taiari Mouth, Otago.

Marine experts believe it could be the elusive spade-toothed whale, with only six ever documented worldwide.

The whale, about 5 meters long, was identified by the Department of Conservation and Te Papa as a male spade-toothed whale. This species is so rare that almost nothing is known about it.

Gabe Davies, DOC’s Coastal Otago operations manager, said this could be a significant scientific find if confirmed.

The whale is now in cold storage, awaiting further examination. This is the first chance scientists have to dissect a fresh spade-toothed whale specimen. The DOC is collaborating with Te Rūnanga ō Ōtākou to ensure the whale is treated with respect and to apply Māori knowledge to the discovery.

Genetic samples have been sent to the University of Auckland for DNA analysis, which could take weeks or months to confirm the whale’s species.

The spade-toothed whale was first described in 1874 from a jaw and teeth found on Pitt Island in the Chathams.

Other remains have been found on White Island and in Chile, helping scientists identify the species. Recent findings in New Zealand have also provided more information about the whale’s appearance.

Local contractor Trevor King Earthmoving and members of the local rūnaka and Otago Museum helped remove the whale from the beach.

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