In a recent study on northern resident orcas off the coast of British Columbia, researchers were surprised when Pacific white-sided dolphins joined the scene. Originally considered irrelevant to the study’s focus on orca feeding habits, the dolphins ended up revealing a symbiotic relationship with the orcas during a salmon hunt.
Contrary to the belief that dolphins are fish-stealing pests, the research team discovered that the dolphins actively participated in deep dives to assist the orcas in hunting Chinook salmon. By communicating through echolocation, the dolphins scouted and signaled the presence of salmon to the orcas, who then took advantage of the information to catch their prey.
Videos captured orcas following dolphins on dives and listening in on the dolphins’ echolocation signals, indicating a collaborative effort between the two species. The orcas shared their catch with other members of their group, allowing the dolphins to feed on the leftover scraps, as the salmon were too large for them to consume without assistance.
The study, conducted over two years in the Johnstone Strait and Queen Charlotte Sound, utilized underwater tags attached to orcas to collect data on their behavior. Drone footage provided additional insights into the interactions between dolphins and orcas during the hunting process, showcasing unique cooperative behaviors rarely observed in the animal kingdom.
The researchers documented numerous instances of dolphins assisting orcas in 2020, shedding light on the intricate connections and collaborative dynamics between different species in the wild. The findings highlight the importance of studying such alliances in nature and their role in ensuring the survival and well-being of marine ecosystems.
