They will perform an autopsy on the mysterious species

The examined specimen of the shovel-toothed beak (Mesoplodon traversii) is the seventh individual ever spotted. However, only now scientists have the chance to thoroughly study one of the rarest cetaceans in the world.

In July this year, the five-meter-long body of a male was washed ashore near the town of Taiari Mouth in the Otago region in the southeast of New Zealand's South Island. The first inspection of the mammal suggested that it was in perfect condition. Only remains of the previous specimens have been preserved, the oldest of which date back to the 19th century.

Necropsy Mesoplodon traversii started on Monday at the Invermay Agresearch Center in Mosgiel. It will take a week and will be slower and more meticulous than traditional ones. In addition to scientists, it is attended by representatives of Maori – the indigenous inhabitants of New Zealand, for whom cetaceans are a valuable treasure.

Scientists examining corpses Mesoplodon traversii do not hide their excitement at the opportunity to learn the secrets of one of the rarest and least known mammals on Earth.

“I can't tell you how extraordinary this is,” says Anton Van Helden, a senior marine science adviser at the New Zealand Wildlife Agency, who adds that peckers are one of the most mysterious large mammals today.

Although the list of questions is very long, experts hope to find answers to some of them. First of all, researchers want to determine what areas shovel-toothed beaked monkeys inhabit, as well as what their digestive systems and brains look like. The way these animals make sounds is also a mystery.

– There may be completely new to science parasites that simply live in this whale – adds Van Halden.

The first inspection revealed traces of the teeth of cookie cutter sharks, which scientists described as normal and did not provide an answer to the cause of the mammal's death. Scientists suggest that detailed research could provide more information about the threats cetaceans face from humans.

Maori representatives will be present at all times during the autopsy to share traditional information and ensure that customs are followed, such as saying a prayer before the examination begins.

– According to our beliefs and traditions, this whale is a gift from Tangaroa, the deity of the ocean, says Tumai Cassidy from the local community of Te Rūnanga Ōtākou.

After completing the dissection, the Maori are to receive a head and teeth Mesoplodon traversii. The rest of the skeleton will go to the museum, where the missing elements will be supplemented thanks to three-dimensional printing technology.