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Elusive Ginkgo-Toothed Whale Finally Seen Alive
22 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Scientists sighted ginkgo-toothed beaked whales, never before seen alive.
- The discovery occurred off the coast of Baja California in June 2024.
- Protecting these whales benefits ocean health and coastal communities.
In June 2024, a breakthrough occurred off the coast of Baja California when scientists aboard the research vessel Pacific Storm sighted a pair of ginkgo-toothed beaked whales. This sighting marked an extraordinary moment, as the incredibly elusive species had never before been observed alive by researchers.
The discovery was the culmination of a five-year effort involving innovative tracking methods, including hydrophones to detect underwater calls and high-powered binoculars for visual confirmation. Researchers successfully collected a small skin sample, despite a curious albatross's attempt to steal it, confirming the whales' identity.
