A "beaked whale" washed ashore on a beach in Australia, giving marine biologists an opportunity to study this extremely rare marine mammal.

Scientists say there's only limited information about this rare species notable for its very slim, elongated snout resembling a beak. The beaked whale is similar to many dolphin species and resides in deep waters..

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It's been a very long time since marine scientists have seen or observed a beaked whale this close so this is considered as a treasure trove for scientists, said Shona Lorigan from the Organization for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia (ORRCA).

The whale measures between 10 to 13 feet long and was found some 90 miles north of Sydney

ORRCA says there are plans to remove the deceased marine mammal's head and to further study and examine it at the Australian Museum in Sydney.

Determine the species of the beaked whale means scientists have to x-ray the mammals jaws do additional DNA analysis.

There are 22 species of beaked whales found in the world's oceans but only three or four have been thoroughly studied.

Beaked whales are known to have existed some 15 million years ago.  their populations are as large as dolphins but they remain elusive to humans.

These marine mammals can dive into depths of 9,800 feet and stay underwater for more than 2 hours.

Scientists have yet to determine the cause of death of this Sydney beaked whale. The oldest beaked whale ever found was believed to be 84 years old.

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