Orcas hunt juvenile great white sharks by flipping them upside down
Orcas in Gulf of California hunt juvenile great white sharks by flipping them upside down to eat their livers.
Why it matters
- Orcas are targeting juvenile sharks in a new location, showing advanced hunting strategies.
- Highlights the impact of climate change on shark nurseries.
By the numbers
- Two hunts observed, killing three juvenile white sharks.
- Five orcas involved in each hunt.
- Hunts observed in August 2020 and August 2022.
The big picture
- This behavior could be more widespread than previously thought.
- Changes in nursery areas due to climate events may be a factor.
- Further research is needed to understand the extent of this behavior.
What they're saying
- Orcas that eat sharks could target great whites anywhere, says marine biologist.
- Adult sharks flee from orcas, but juveniles may be naive.
- More data needed to understand orca diets and critical habitats.
Caveats
- Observations are limited to two hunts.
- More data needed to draw strong conclusions.
- Study based on observations; further research required.
What’s next
- Scientists plan to survey orca population’s diet.
- Aim to create protected areas and management plans.