✉news EnvironmentOceans first seen 22 h ago, last 19 h ago, peak #14
Humpback whales may rescue seals from killer whales
Original: Are humpback whales the ocean’s unexpected heroes? Do they really try and save seals from killer whales?
Scientists and wildlife writers are examining reports that humpback whales sometimes intervene to protect seals from killer whale attacks. Observations suggest humpbacks have been seen charging at orcas, using their flippers and bodies to shield prey, possibly as a by-product of defensive behaviour against orcas attacking their own calves. The debate over whether this counts as deliberate rescue is drawing widespread interest.
Why now: Renewed attention on remarkable footage and studies of humpbacks interfering with killer whale hunts has sparked debate about whether the behaviour is altruistic.
humpback whaleskiller whalesseals
Evidence
- Are humpback whales the ocean’s unexpected heroes? Do they really try and save seals from killer whales? · BBC Wildlife Magazine
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