Orcas, the majestic predators of the deep, have been observed engaging in a fascinating and somewhat controversial behavior: hunting great white sharks for their livers. This unique footage, captured by scientists in Mexico, showcases a group of orcas working together to target and consume the energy-rich livers of young white sharks. While similar incidents have been recorded in South Africa, Australia, and California, this is the first time such behavior has been documented in Mexico, as per a study published in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science.
In one remarkable incident, a group of five female killer whales were witnessed using their collective strength to attack a young white shark and skillfully remove its liver, sharing it among themselves. This behavior was not an isolated event; just a few minutes later, the same group struck again, successfully removing the liver from another young white shark. The study, conducted by wildlife cinematographer and marine biologist Erick Higuera, highlights the orcas' ability to immobilize the sharks by flipping them onto their backs, a technique that may induce 'tonic immobility,' making the sharks easier to handle and reducing the risk of injury.
Higuera's findings suggest that juvenile white sharks are becoming a regular seasonal prey target for orcas, which could exert significant additional pressure on white shark populations. This discovery provides valuable insights into the ecology of orcas in the Gulf of California, offering opportunities for conservation and preservation efforts. Marine biologist Alison Towner, who was not involved in the study, praised the evidence presented, emphasizing the importance of drone footage in understanding these interactions. She noted that while the behavior is not widespread, it is specific to certain orca groups that have learned this technique, and its impact depends on the frequency of occurrence in a given region.
The targeting of shark livers, which are rich in nutrients and relatively large compared to the animal's size, presents a significant nutritional reward for orcas skilled in handling sharks safely. This study not only sheds light on the hunting strategies of orcas but also underscores the importance of understanding and preserving the delicate balance between predator and prey in marine ecosystems.
