Scientists dissect rare spade-toothed whale in New Zealand, uncover cause of death and new insights

Scientists have completed the first dissection of a spade-toothed whale, the world's rarest whale, which was found dead on a New Zealand beach in July. They suspect it died from head injuries, including a broken jaw. The whale, a 16-foot male, is the first complete specimen ever recorded. Researchers discovered nine stomach chambers containing squid and parasitic worms, and tiny vestigial teeth that provide insights into its evolutionary history. The dissection involved collaboration with local Māori people, who will keep the whale's jawbone and teeth. The skeleton will be displayed in a museum, and 3D printing will replicate the retained parts.