Toothed Cetacean Collection

Physeter macrocephalus, Sperm whale tooth
Sperm whale tooth

Rough-toothed dolphin skull with ink scrimshaw
Skull of a rough-toothed dolphin, a species that lives deep in tropical waters.The skull, believed to date back to 1850, has been decorated with ink by sailors in scrimshaw

Lagenorhynchus obscurus, dusky dolphin
Delphinus fitzRoyi. Plate from The Zoology of the Voyage of H.M.S. Beagle, Vol. 1 Part 2 Mammalia, 1838-1839, by Charles Darwin

The Soosoo of the Ganges, a river dolphin
Line drawing, plate 28 from the Naturalists Library volume XXV11 by Robert Hamilton, 1836

Prosqualodon davidi, skull cast
Cast of the cranium of Prosqualodon davidi from the early Miocene of Tasmania, Australia (original skull no longer exists)

Sperm whale excavation C016 / 5929
Sperm whale excavation, Excavation of a sperm whale skull and skeleton in Bridlington, Humberside, UK, in 1938

Northern bottlenose whale skeleton C016 / 6156
Skeleton of the northern bottlenose whale (Hyperoodon ampullatus), also known as the Thames Whale, which became stranded in the River Thames in January 2006

Dolphins, artwork C016 / 6185
Dolphins, artwork. Plate one from Edward Wilsons Terra Nova Expedition (officially the British Antarctic Expedition 1910) sketch book showing three dolphins

Homeward Bound
Illustration (p.531) from Charles Darwins Journal of Researches, first illustrated edition 1890

Sketch of Dolphins by Edward Wilson
Plate one from Edward Wilson sTerra Nova sketch book showing three dolphins

Sousa teuszii, Atlantic Hump-backed Dolphin skull

Tabula
Illustration from Handlung 1 Tabula, by Kirschner, 1786

Carrying model beluga on pole, c. 1934
It took over a year from the closure of the old Whale Hall on 1 January 1934 for the skeletons and models, such as this beluga, to be ready for the public in the new Whale Hall

Working on whale carcass, 1930s
Since 1913, when the Crowns rights to whales and dolphins stranded or caught in English waters (Fishes Royal) were transferred to the Museum, staff have been monitoring cetacean strandings

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"Unveiling the Enigmatic Toothed Cetacean: A Fascinating Journey into their Unique Anatomy" Dive into the mysterious world of toothed cetaceans, where remarkable creatures like Physeter macrocephalus and the Rough-toothed dolphin captivate with their extraordinary dental structures. The Sperm whale, scientifically known as Physeter macrocephalus, possesses a massive tooth that can reach up to 20 centimeters in length. These impressive teeth are not only used for hunting but also serve as a symbol of strength and power within their social hierarchy. Moving on to the enchanting Rough-toothed dolphin, its skull adorned with intricate ink scrimshaw tells tales of ancient artistry. This delicate artwork showcases both human creativity and reverence for these majestic marine beings. Enter the realm of Prosqualodon davidi, an extinct species whose legacy lives on through fossilized remains. The cast of its skull provides invaluable insights into the evolution and adaptations that allowed these toothed cetaceans to thrive in prehistoric oceans. With each Rough-toothed dolphin skull embellished by ink scrimshaw, we witness a fusion between natural beauty and artistic expression. These ethereal creations remind us of our deep connection with nature's wonders while celebrating humanity's ability to find inspiration even in unexpected places. As we explore further into this captivating world, it becomes evident that toothed cetaceans possess more than just physical prowess; they hold secrets waiting to be unraveled. From their powerful jaws capable of capturing prey with precision to their complex communication systems that echo across vast oceanic expanses – there is so much left to discover about these enigmatic creatures. Intriguingly diverse yet united by their unique dental features, toothed cetaceans continue to amaze scientists and enthusiasts alike. Their teeth act as silent storytellers whispering tales from distant pasts while inspiring awe for what lies beneath the surface of our oceans.