Deep-Sea Orcas Hunting Techniques

Deep-Sea Orcas Hunting Techniques

• Observations reveal that deep-sea orcas exhibit unique hunting behaviors, such as ramming prey and launching sea lions into the air.
• Research from the University of British Columbia’s Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries highlights these behaviors, noting their rarity in high seas sightings.
• Proposed new ecotype, termed "deep-water-transient," was identified due to distinct hunting methods compared to coastal killer whale populations.

Hunting Behavior and Prey

• Orcas in the Monterey Submarine Canyon were studied from 2006 to 2018, with additional data from whale-watching tours spanning 2014-2021.
• 84.16% of observed behavior tasks were dedicated to foraging, with hunting occurring more in groups and utilizing aggressive tactics against prey.
• Key prey species include California sea lions and grey whale calves, indicating a preference for specific targets in deep-water environments.

Evidence of a New Subtype

• A study presented in Aquatic Mammals suggests additional deep-water orcas off California and Oregon may constitute a new subgroup, marked by different physical features and distinct hunting practices.
• First documented attacks on adult female sperm whales off the West Coast highlight the adaptability and predatory skills of these orcas.
• Observations included interactions with other species like northern elephant seals and arises post-scavenging of a leatherback turtle.

Distinct Physical Characteristics

• Deep-water orcas might vary in patch patterns near dorsal fins compared to coastal orcas, suggesting adaptations to their ecology.
• Notable scars from cookie-cutter sharks found on 48 of 49 surveyed whales support the theory of a new subtype, as these parasitic fish predominantly inhabit deep waters.
• Findings underscore the uniqueness of this population, which requires extensive observation to recognize differences effectively.