Gulf of California killer whales have learned to hunt great white sharks and tear out their livers

Gulf of California Killer Whales Hunt Great White Sharks

Killer whales in northern Mexico have gained attention after scientists documented their unusual hunting behavior targeting young great white sharks. These orcas flip the sharks upside down, causing paralysis, before extracting and devouring their nutrient-rich livers.

Scientific Observations and Video Evidence

Researchers studying the Moctezuma pod of orcas released videos showing the whales incapacitating juvenile great whites by inducing tonic immobility— a temporary paralysis from flipping the shark over. This tactic allows the orcas to safely access and consume the sharks' livers, a high-energy food source.

“In Mexico, Killer Whales Take Down Great White Sharks,” reported the New York Times.

“Orcas in Mexico Have Learned to Attack Young Great White Sharks — by Flipping Them Upside Down and Eating Their Livers,” stated Smithsonian magazine.

Geographic and Behavioral Significance

This hunting strategy was previously only known to occur off South Africa, making the discovery in Gulf of California waters significant for understanding orca behavior and diet diversification. The Moctezuma pod appears specialized in preying on sharks, a rare and complex form of hunting among killer whales.

Research Contributor

Marine biologist Erick Higuera captured critical footage that highlights how coordinated these orcas are during their shark hunting, revealing new insights into their feeding strategies.

Author's summary: Northern Mexico's killer whales exhibit a unique hunting method by flipping young great white sharks to paralyze them and feast on their high-energy livers, expanding known orca predation behaviors.

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Mexico News Daily Mexico News Daily — 2025-11-08

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