A Pacific white-sided dolphin approaching a killer whale, as recorded from a camera worn by the killer whale
University of British Columbia (A.Trites), Dalhousie University (S. Fortune), Hakai Institute (K. Holmes), Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (X. Cheng)
Killer Whales and Dolphins Collaborate in Hunting Salmon in Pacific Ocean
Killer whales and dolphins have been observed working together to hunt salmon in the northern Pacific Ocean, shedding light on the intricate social dynamics of marine mammals.
A recent study using video cameras and sensors attached to nine killer whales, also known as orcas, revealed a surprising cooperative behavior. Four of the whales were seen diving alongside Pacific white-sided dolphins to target Chinook salmon hiding in the depths off northern Vancouver Island. While the orcas consumed the salmon, the dolphins scavenged the leftovers.
“They were cooperatively foraging,” explained Sarah Fortune from Dalhousie University in Canada. “You could anthropomorphize it and say that they’re being friends for hunting purposes.”
Chinook salmon, also known as king salmon, can grow to over a meter in length, making them too large for dolphins to consume. However, the messy eating habits of the northern Vancouver Island whales leave behind scraps that the dolphins can feed on. It is believed that the dolphins assist the whales in locating the salmon.
During the study, six out of the 12 whales interacted with the dolphins, with a total of 102 instances of orientation towards them recorded in the videos. The whales and dolphins were observed diving together to depths of up to 60 meters, where salmon seek refuge among rocks and crevasses.
While both species used clicks and buzzes for communication, the sensor data showed that the whales often reduced their echolocation, potentially to listen in on the dolphins’ sounds. This behavior suggests a form of collaboration where the dolphins aid the whales in locating fish more efficiently.
Previous research has shown instances of inter-species cooperation in the animal kingdom, such as fish leading octopuses to prey and honeyguide birds guiding humans to bee colonies. However, interactions between killer whales and other species have typically been predatory or antagonistic.
Recent incidents of orcas ramming sailboats near the Iberian peninsula have raised concerns, although experts suggest it may be playful behavior rather than aggressive intent.
While some researchers argue that dolphins are merely opportunistic in scavenging scraps from the whales, others believe in a more symbiotic relationship. Regardless, the intricate interactions between killer whales and dolphins continue to fascinate and intrigue scientists studying marine mammal behavior.
Overall, the study highlights the intelligence and adaptability of these animals, showcasing a spectrum of behaviors from predation to cooperation in their shared marine environment.
Topics:
- whales and dolphins/
- animal behaviour
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