Apex Predation
26.1.24 Apex of apex predators is a title given to killer whales and today’s event at Bremer Canyon was a striking testament as to why.
Their unparalleled efficiency and seamless cooperative hunting tactics set them apart.
Upon reaching the hotspot, Tatty’s pod emerged at our 12 o’clock.
Our anticipation grew, but they remained engrossed below, surfacing briefly for 1-2 breaths before disappearing.
No Time for Games for these Apex Predators
Joining Split Tip’s pod, equally focused, we observed their intense hunger – no time for games with humans!
We reassured our guests not to lose hope, emphasizing the potential for sudden changes.
And indeed, they came! Surging orcas ahead signaled a swift transformation in Split Tip’s pod’s pace.
Racing to keep up, they zeroed in on their prey. Ahead, the orcas formed a synchronized formation, targeting a beaked whale, which stood no chance against these apex predators.
The Fate of the Beaked Whale
White water erupted as they thrashed, turning swiftly into red water.
The beaked whale’s fate became evident in a fleeting glimpse before it became the killer whale’s lunch.
The feeding frenzy unfolded. 30-40 orcas, embodying apex prowess, shared the kill, breaking into respective family groups.
A darting blue shark and a wandering albatross, with an impressive 3.5m wingspan, stood out amidst swirling birds.
An Indian yellow-nosed albatross swooped in, pilfering a chunk of meat from shearwaters.
Post Apex Feast Frivolity
Post-feast, the orcas celebrated their success with jubilant displays – tail slaps and breaches.
Matriarchs Split Tip and Cookie, along with apex individuals Wonks and the colossal bull Koomba, treated us to close passes.
Playful calves from Split Tip’s pod wrestled over the beaked whale’s spinal column, with shearwaters trailing, hopeful for any scraps.
Departing the canyon, we bid farewell, buzzing with excitement and entirely awestruck by this remarkable orca spectacle.
View more photos of the apex predation. Scroll down to Blog 26.1.24.
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