Scientists in British Columbia have documented orcas and Pacific white-sided dolphins hunting salmon together — the first evidence of cooperation between these two predators.
Using drone footage, underwater video and acoustic tags, researchers found that dolphins act like “scouts,” chasing Chinook salmon ahead of northern resident killer whales. The whales then catch and share the fish, while dolphins feed on the leftovers. Surprisingly, the whales show no aggression, even though they normally guard their kills.
Other explanations — such as dolphins seeking protection or stealing scraps — didn’t fit the observations. Instead, the whales consistently followed the dolphins’ lead, suggesting a true cooperative strategy.
Underwater audio revealed alternating echolocation clicks from both species, raising the possibility that they may be listening to each other to improve hunting efficiency.
Researchers say more study is needed, but the findings highlight the remarkable adaptability and intelligence of both dolphins and orcas.
