Colossal squid

All you’d want to know about the colossal squid. Currently not on display but back in 2019 with the opening of our new nature zone.

Colossal squid at Te Papa

Colossal squid at Te Papa

We have one colossal squid on display, but did you know we have three colossal squid specimens in our collection?
Colossal squid vs giant squid

Colossal squid vs giant squid

Both giant and colossal squid are a class of molluscs but one is much bigger than the other.
Watch: Highlights from a colossal squid examination

Watch: Highlights from a colossal squid examination

Watch highlights from a colossal squid examination at Te Papa as specialists in squid biology from Auckland University of Technology undertake research on this rare find.
The anatomy of the colossal squid
The anatomy of the colossal squid

Discover all about the anatomy this deep sea beast. Learn about it's massive eyes, sharp beak, and long hooked tentacles.
The life and habits of a colossal squid

The life and habits of a colossal squid

We know very little about the colossal squid’s life history, diet, or behaviour, because they live at extreme depths in freezing water, but here's what we do know...
Code your own colossal squid game

Code your own colossal squid game

Learn the basics of coding and create a game that explores the life of the colossal squid.