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‘World’s Rarest Whale’ Discovered Dead on New Zealand Beach
A spade-toothed whale, a species so elusive that it has never been seen alive, has been found dead on a beach in New Zealand. This rare discovery was made at the mouth of the Taiari River in Otago province on New Zealand’s South Island on July 4th.
Identification of the Rare Find
Scientists identified the five-meter-long beaked whale based on its color patterns and the distinct shape of its skull, beak, and teeth. The whale’s remains have been preserved in cold storage while DNA testing is conducted to confirm the species definitively. This testing process may take several weeks.
Significance of the Discovery
With only six documented specimens worldwide and no live sightings, the spade-toothed whale remains one of the least known large mammalian species. Gabe Davies, a Department of Conservation (DOC) official, emphasized the scientific and conservation significance of this find. The recent death of this specimen presents a rare opportunity for researchers to dissect and study the whale, potentially yielding crucial information about the species.
Cultural and Scientific Collaboration
New Zealand’s Māori people, who regard whales as sacred treasures, will be involved in deciding the whale’s fate. The DOC has expressed its commitment to including local Māori communities in this process.
Historical Context of the Species
The spade-toothed whale was first described in 1874 from a lower jaw and two teeth collected on New Zealand’s Chatham Islands. Subsequent skeletal remains found off islands in New Zealand and Chile helped scientists confirm the existence of this new species.
The discovery of this spade-toothed whale carcass offers a unique opportunity for researchers to gain valuable insights into a species shrouded in mystery and rarity.
News
Over 60 Injured in Drone Strike on Northern Israel
More than 60 people have been injured following a drone strike in northern Israel’s Binyamina region, according to emergency response organization United Hatzalah. The attack, claimed by Hezbollah, targeted a training camp of the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) Golani Brigade, located between Tel Aviv and Haifa.
The victims, whose conditions range from critical to mild, were evacuated to five regional hospitals via ambulances and helicopters. Israeli media reported that 67 people were injured in total, with four in critical condition and five others seriously wounded.
Hezbollah’s media office said the strike was in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon and Beirut earlier this week. The group used a “swarm of drones” in the attack, and reports suggest the low-level drones launched from Lebanon did not trigger Israel’s early warning alarms.
Footage showed wounded individuals being rushed into emergency vehicles, including helicopters, as medical teams worked swiftly to provide care. The injured were taken to hospitals in Hadera, Tel Hashomer, Haifa, Afula, and Netanya, where medical teams are working to stabilize those in critical condition.
News
Officials Urge Caution in Aftermath of Hurricane Milton: ‘Don’t Go Sightseeing’
Although Hurricane Milton has passed, officials are warning residents across Florida to remain cautious as the storm’s lingering effects, including severe flooding, continue to pose risks. In Hillsborough County, where Tampa is located, rescue teams have been hard at work after the river overflowed, causing over 6 feet (1.8 meters) of flooding. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, traveling by boat, has been ensuring the safety of residents in the flood-affected areas.
While multiple Florida ports have reopened, including Key West, Port Everglades, and Miami, several remain closed, such as those in St. Petersburg, Fort Myers, and Jacksonville. Georgia and South Carolina have also seen some port reopenings, but many areas still face closures and flooding risks.
President Biden provided an update on the storm’s damage, estimating the total cost to be around $50 billion. He emphasized that more financial aid would be necessary and called on Congress to approve additional funds as the true extent of the damage is assessed.
Officials are also urging people to stay off the roads and avoid “sightseeing” in affected areas to prevent further accidents or fatalities. “We’re going to need a lot of help,” Biden said, stressing the long recovery ahead after Milton and Hurricane Helene, which struck the region just weeks earlier.
News
Florida Reels as Hurricane Milton Leaves Six Dead and Destruction in its Wake
At least six people have died after Hurricane Milton tore through Florida, leaving behind a trail of destruction. As emergency responders navigate floodwaters and clear debris from fallen trees and power lines, the full extent of the storm’s toll remains unclear.
In St. Lucie County, four people lost their lives after multiple tornadoes struck the region. In central Florida’s St. Petersburg, police chief Anthony Halloway confirmed two more deaths.
President Joe Biden addressed the nation, acknowledging the uncertain scope of the damage and the dangers that remain. He emphasized that while the storm has passed, the aftermath can often bring additional fatalities. “There’s still very dangerous conditions in the state,” Biden warned.
He also stressed the need for substantial financial aid to support the state’s recovery. Biden called on Congress, currently in recess, to return and address the urgent emergency funding needs, underscoring that Florida’s recovery will be a “long haul” requiring billions of dollars in aid.
The president assured that immediate relief efforts are underway, ensuring that residents affected by the storm receive the support they need.
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