In 2022, footage of orcas preying on great white sharks went viral on social media. People were perplexed by the predator-eat-predator occurrence.
Also read: VIDEO: Rare footage of orcas killing great white shark in Mossel Bay
New, much clearer footage has now been shared – this time from a different angle that exposes the whales extracting the shark’s liver.
Shark Week recently shared the video with the caption: “Two orca whales go off on a destructive hunt, killing great white sharks off the South African coast. This is the first time this killer whale behavior has been caught on film.”
Watch:
Content warning: the following video contains graphic footage that some viewers might find disturbing.
Though perplexing and rare, this occurrence is natural
Orcas, also known as killer whales, are apex predators that have been known to hunt great white sharks. Although great whites are formidable predators themselves, orcas have unique hunting strategies that give them an advantage.
Orcas are highly intelligent and social animals that hunt in pods, working together to take down their prey. In contrast, great white sharks are solitary hunters that rely on their powerful jaws and speed to catch their food.
When hunting great whites, orcas often target the shark’s liver, which is rich in nutrients and high in fat. By working together, the orcas can overwhelm and exhaust the shark, making it easier to target vulnerable areas.
Also read:
A pair of orcas kill 17 sharks in feeding frenzy near Gansbaai
Picture and Video: Shark Week / Facebook