The Colossal SquidTe Ngū Tipua

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

Discover all about the anatomy this deep sea beast. Learn about it's massive eyes, sharp beak, and long hooked tentacles.

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...

Primary

An activity book to help kids explore the bizarre anatomy of the colossal squid, where it lives, how it came to Te Papa, and what it eats. Suitable for ages 10+.

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.

Nine-year-old colossal squid super-fan Sam, and fish expert Andrew Stewart, share some astounding facts about this bizarre creature.

Find out about what the scientists and exhibition builders got up to to discover facts and then display one of the largest invertebrate on the planet.