Only Six Specimens Known to Science Since the 19th Century
In a rare event on a New Zealand beach, the country’s conservation authority announced on Monday that possibly the world’s rarest whale has washed ashore.
The 16-foot whale was discovered on July 4 near the city of Dunedin on the South Island.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) revealed that only six specimens of this species have been known to science since the 19th century.
Upon inspection, the agency, along with experts from the national museum Te Papa, concluded that the mammal appears to be a male True’s beaked whale.
The DOC posted a video of the whale on their official Instagram page.
Following an overview of the rare whale’s characteristics, the organization shared: ‘It’s heartbreaking to see this whale stranded, but it also presents a valuable chance to gain insights into how we can better protect these mysterious creatures.
“This is incredibly important from scientific, cultural, and conservation perspectives. We will work in partnership with Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou on the next steps.”
Additionally, Gabi Davies, DOC Coastal Otago Operations Manager, stated, “Beaked whales are among the least known large mammals of modern times. From a scientific and conservation perspective, this is significant.”
According to a DOC press release, this species is “incredibly rare and little is known about it.”
Nadia Wesley-Smith, Chair of Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou, emphasized the importance of respecting this taonga (treasure) through a shared learning journey and applying mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) as more is discovered about this rare species.
Genetic samples have been sent for analysis, but it may take several weeks or months for the DNA to be processed and the final species confirmed.
The DOC mentioned that the whale is being kept in cold storage to preserve the remains until the next steps are determined.