Orcas Attack: Stunning Photos Capture Deadly Hunt of Endangered Blue Whale!

Off the shores of Western Australia, within the Bremer Canyon region, a dramatic scene unfolded as more than 60 killer whales orchestrated the attack and eventual demise of a pygmy blue whale approximately 60 feet in length. The intense encounter lasted about 90 minutes and was captured in images that were later posted on Facebook, noted for their graphic nature.

Recently, I covered the disruptive impact of orcas on the marine food chain in South Africa, where they have been significantly reducing the number of local great white sharks. This shift has allowed other marine species, previously controlled by these sharks, to multiply unchecked, leading to various unforeseen ecological consequences.

The orcas, in what seems to be a frenzy of aggression, have targeted the vulnerable pygmy blue whales. These whales, although slightly smaller, are the endangered relatives of the blue whale, the largest creature on the planet. The spectacle was witnessed both by scientists and tourists who were left in shock as the gruesome event unfolded before them.

Marine biologist Jennah Tucker, who was present at the scene, described the event to ABC with surprising composure, labeling it as a natural but heartbreaking spectacle.

Rare Sightings of Blue Whale Predation

According to researchers, the attack seemed to be a well-coordinated assault involving multiple orca families, resembling a mob attack. At one point, up to 30 orcas encircled the young pygmy whale, with even the youngest members of the pods participating— one calf, still without teeth, was seen close to its mother during the ordeal.

The killer whales methodically wore down their prey before taking turns to feed. Tucker mentioned that such incidents of blue whale killings are extremely rare, with only a few ever being recorded, four of which occurred in Bremer Canyon itself.

Tucker shared with ABC that the experience was shocking for everyone involved. The team strives to remain as non-intrusive as possible during such observations, but she admitted that witnessing such a brutal act of nature is profoundly challenging.

She further commented on the dire situation of the pygmy blue whales, emphasizing the difficulty in witnessing the struggle of an animal species that is already facing challenges in recovering from the impacts of whaling.