Scientists have documented orcas and Pacific white-sided dolphins teaming up to hunt salmon off British Columbia — a surprising cooperative strategy never seen before.
Using drones, acoustic tags and underwater video, researchers found that resident killer whales, which specialize in catching Chinook salmon, often follow dolphins acting like “scouts.” The dolphins chase the salmon ahead, and after the orcas catch and break apart the fish, the dolphins feed on leftover scraps.
The whales, normally protective of their prey, show no aggression, suggesting the partnership benefits both sides.
Acoustic recordings revealed alternating echolocation clicks, indicating the two species may be listening to each other as they track salmon underwater.
Researchers are now investigating whether whales that hunt alongside dolphins are more successful than those that hunt alone.
The finding highlights the remarkable adaptability and intelligence of both species.
