New Zealand: Rare whale washes up on shore

A specimen of one of New Zealand's rarest and least known whale species has washed up on a beach. The five-metre-long animal was discovered on July 4 near the South Island city of Dunedin. The Travers' beaked whale is likely a male, according to local conservation agency DOC.

To date, only a handful of specimens of this species have been discovered. “Travers’ beaked whales are one of the least known large mammals,” says Gabe Davies of DOC. “Since 1800, only six specimens have been recorded worldwide, and all but one of them came from New Zealand. From a scientific and conservation perspective, this is remarkable.”

Samples of the animal have already been sent to the University of Auckland for DNA analysis, but the results may not be known for several weeks, precisely because it is an extremely rare species. The whale is currently being stored in cold storage to preserve its remains.

Close ties with Maori

The researchers will also consult with New Zealand’s indigenous people, the Maori, to ensure the animal is treated appropriately and with respect. To the Maori, whales are more than just animals. They see a direct connection to marine mammals and consider them their ancestors.

The scientific name for this whale is Mesoplodon traversii. Fragments of jaws and teeth of this species were first discovered in 1874. Since then, only a few have been found, including two complete specimens first discovered in 2010. The mother and her calf became stranded on the North Island of New South Wales and later died. The animals have not been documented alive at sea.

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