Study reveals killer whales’ surprising behavior in rare wild interactions
In a striking display of interspecies curiosity, killer whales have been documented offering food to humans in 34 incidents across two decades, from California to Patagonia, according to a study published in the Journal of Comparative Psychology.
Led by Jared Towers of Bay Cetology, researchers from Canada, New Zealand, and Mexico analyzed cases where orcas approached humans, on boats, in water, or on shore, and presented prey, often waiting for a response.
This behavior, previously noted in domesticated animals, suggests orcas’ intelligence and social nature may drive them to explore relationships with humans.
These interactions highlight orcas’ complex cognitive abilities and raise questions about human-wildlife boundaries, potentially reshaping conservation and ethical considerations for marine ecosystems.
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