Why in the News?

A new study in the Journal of Comparative Psychology documents rare instances of Killer Whales (Orcinus orca) sharing freshly killed prey with humans.

Why are Killer Whales offering fresh prey to humans?

About Killer Whales (Orcinus orca):

Overview: Largest member of the dolphin family (Delphinidae), often called “wolves of the sea”.
Apex predators: At the top of the marine food chain.
Physical traits:
- Black dorsal side, white underside, distinctive eye patch, saddle patch behind dorsal fin.
- Can grow up to 9 m, weigh over 5,000 kg, and swim up to 54 km/hr.
Social structure: Live in pods led by a matriarch; highly coordinated hunters using complex tactics.
Distribution: Found in all oceans worldwide, from polar to tropical seas, in both open and coastal waters.
IUCN – Data Deficient: But many regional populations face threats from climate change, prey decline, and pollution.

Why do they offer their fresh prey to humans?

Study Findings (2004–2024):
- Killer whales were observed offering whole prey to humans (fish, birds, mammals, etc.) in multiple oceans.
- In most cases, they waited for a human response before reclaiming or abandoning prey.
Possible Reasons:
- Exploration/Curiosity: Reflects their advanced cognition and social curiosity; a way to learn about humans.
- Prosocial Behaviour: They are among the few species that share food within and outside their groups.
- Play Theory Rejected: Behaviour not limited to juveniles; adults also involved, often with whole prey.
- Scientific Thinking Analogy: Behaviour resembles “asking questions” and testing human reactions — a form of exploratory intelligence.
- Machiavellian Behaviour: Could sometimes be manipulative, as killer whales are known to steal fish and disrupt vessels.