'It is a Whopper:' Giant Squid on Beach

(Image credit: AP Photo/Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service, HO)In this photo released by Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service, a giant squid is seen after it washed up onto Ocean Beach in Strahan, Tasmania, Tuesday, July, 10. 2007. The squid, measuring 1 meter (3 feet) across at its widest point and 8 meters (26 feet) from the tip of its body to the end of its tentacles, was found early Wednesday by a beachcomber at Ocean Beach on the island state of Tasmania's west coast.

Beached Giant Squid

(Image credit: David Paul, Museum Victoria)Giant squid are almost never observed in the wild, but beached specimens have taught scientists about their anatomy.

Giant Squid

(Image credit: David Paul, Museum Victoria)An autopsy of a beached giant squid in Canada.

Giant Squid's Length

(Image credit: Mark Norman)Scientists estimate that giant squid can grow up to about 60 feet (18 meters) long, including their massive tentacles.

Giant Squid Beak

(Image credit: David Paul, Museum Victoria)The beak of a giant squid. The animals are apparently skilled hunters, eating fish and other squid.

Squid Autopsy

(Image credit: Mark Norman, Museum Victoria)Scientists autopsy a giant squid corpse. Giant squid weren't observed live in their natural habitats until 2004.

Squid Tentacle

(Image credit: Mark Norman, Museum Victoria)The tentacle of a giant squid, sporting large suckers.