• Orcas may be at risk of predation by other orcasFrancois Gohie/VWPics/Alamy Orcas may be at risk of predation by other orcas Francois Gohie/VWPics/Alamy Biologists have seen signs of orca-on-orca predation in the North Pacific, and such cannibalism may explain why some orcas travel in large family groups. • Two distinct subspecies oforcas, also called killer whales (Orcinus orca), are found in the North Pacific. • Transient or Bigg’s orcas, as their name suggests, are nomadic and congregate in fluid hunting pods to hunt seals, dolphins and other whales. • In contrast, resident orcas live in large groups based on maternal ties, staying with the same family their whole lives. • Residents will disperse and feed on fish individually and come back together again when resting or travelling. • Read moreOrcas have begun wearing salmon hats again - and we may soon know why Read more Orcas have begun wearing salmon hats again - and we may soon know why It’s thought that the two subspecies seldom interact, but Sergey Fomin at the Pacific Institute of Geography in Russia has seen evidence of violent encounters.

Article Summaries:

  • Biologists have seen signs of orca-on-orca predation in the North Pacific, and such cannibalism may explain why some orcas travel in large family groups. Two distinct subspecies of orcas, also called killer whales (Orcinus orca), are found in the North Pacific. Transient or Bigg’s orcas, as their name suggests, are nomadic and congregate in fluid hunting pods to hunt seals, dolphins and other whales. In contrast, resident orcas live in large groups based on maternal ties, staying with the same family their whole lives. Residents will disperse and feed on fish individually and come back togethe

Sources: