Scientists finally spot living ginkgo-toothed beaked whales for the 1st time
Researchers have captured the first-ever photos of living ginkgo-toothed beaked whales off Baja California, a species previously only known from a handful of stranded animals.
This June 2024 sighting is a huge moment for marine biology and whale fans alike.
How did they know it was really them?
To make sure they'd found the right whales, scientists collected a small skin sample using a modified crossbow—a tried-and-tested method for whale research.
Genetic testing confirmed these mysterious creatures were indeed ginkgo-toothed beaked whales.
Years of listening paid off
This discovery didn't happen overnight. Since 2020, scientists had been tracking a unique whale call (nicknamed BW43) across the Pacific with underwater microphones and binoculars.
Their patience paid off when they finally spotted two young whales surfacing in June.
Rethinking where these whales live
Turns out, these whales aren't just hanging around Japan like everyone thought.
The team found evidence of them year-round along the US West Coast and Mexico, suggesting their range is much bigger than anyone realized.