World’s rarest whale washes up on New Zealand beach

Scientists believe a rare spade-toothed whale has washed up on a New Zealand beach. This species has never been seen alive, with only six samples documented worldwide since the 1800s. The 5-meter long body was found in Otago province on July 4. DNA tests are underway to confirm its classification. This find is significant for scientific and conservation purposes, as it may provide the first opportunity to dissect a spade-toothed whale. The species was first described in 1874 but remains largely unknown.