Observations from Mexico’s Gulf of California document orcas cooperating to dismantle large sharp-tail sunfish. One whale stabilised the prey while another accelerated into it, requiring precise positioning, timing and apparent coordination between participants. Researchers are considering several interpretations, including food processing, play, social bonding and adults demonstrating techniques to juveniles. Similar behaviours elsewhere show that orca groups can develop locally distinctive, socially transmitted methods for handling prey, although more observations are needed to establish how widespread this particular tactic is.
Orcas Coordinate to Break Apart Giant Sunfish
