In the Gulf of California, orcas adopt surprising hunting techniques to attack the imposing whale shark. This practice, hitherto little documented, illustrates their remarkable capacity for adaptation in the face of predation. Researchers are wondering about the ecological implications of this behavior.
b) Orca biting the pelvic fin of the whale shark.
c, d) “Moctezuma”, adult male of the group, identified among the orcas involved.
For several years, sporadic observations have suggested interactions between these marine predators and whale sharks. With their 18 meters long, these giant fish seem unlikely prey. But young, more vulnerable individuals are strategic targets. Scientists have recorded four hunting episodes between 2018 and 2024. These scenes, captured in videos and photos, show the orcas working together to disorient their prey. Once flipped onto its back, the whale shark enters a state of tonic immobility. This strategy, exploited by orcas, allows them to access vulnerable areas of the body of theanimal.
An adult male named Moctezuma, identifiable by his scars, was observed in three of the attacks. Accompanied by females and young orcas, he seems to play a central role in the transmission of these specialized techniques. This behavior could indicate cultural transmission within this specific population.
Top: The whale shark is brought to the surface and an orca bites near the pelvic area.
Bottom: The orcas surface for air before grabbing the whale shark and delivering a swift final blow.
Credit: Kelsey Williamson
Orcas particularly target the pelvic area of whale sharks, a less protected part where they can reach nutrient-rich organs, such as the liver. Researchers did not directly observe the consumption of this organ during these events.
This new hunting strategy highlights the astonishing intelligence of these marine predators. However, it raises questions about the survival of these orcas if their prey were to disappear. Climate change, by disrupting marine ecosystems, could limit access to whale sharks in the region.
For researchers, these observations also highlight the importance of regulating human interactions in these marine areas. Tourist and scientific activities must be supervised to protect both prey and predators.
a) “Moctezuma”, an adult male orca, approaches an apparently moribund whale shark.
b) The whale shark has a large bleeding wound after several impacts.
c) The orca pushes the whale shark below the surface.
d) The whale shark came to the surface with its pectoral fins out of the water.
e) The whale shark's caudal fin strikes the surface.
f) The orca is behind the shark, hitting it several times.
g) “Moctezuma” continues to hit the whale shark.
h) Tourist boats watch “Moctezuma” disappear after the attack.
The orca collaboration highlights their key role in marine ecosystems. These behaviors illustrate their ability to adapt to their environment.
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