The method of hunting may imply that some orcas in the Gulf of California have acquired a special set of skills–like going after the ventral side of young whale sharks–that help them prey on these enormous fish. Orcas may have learned to do the same thing in other parts of the world, but evidence is limited, according to the team.

Marine biologists documented the never-before-confirmed behavior among orcas living in the Southern Gulf of California.

Orcas in the Gulf of California hunt whale sharks using advanced techniques. This highlights the need for conservation efforts.

Killer Whales are learning new skills to help them hunt the world’s biggest shark, scientists say. Orcas are now hunting in packs to kill whale sharks, predominantly in the Gulf of California. It is thought that the killer whales have gained ‘special’ knowledge over the last six years which enables them to hunt in a way they have never been able to before.

An orca pod in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Mexico has devised a cunning strategy to hunt and kill whale sharks — the world’s largest fish that can grow up to 18 meters (60 feet) in length — new research has revealed.

Killer whales can feed on marine mammals, turtles, and fish. In the Gulf of California, a pod might have picked up new skills that help them hunt whale sharks—the world's largest fish, growing up to 18 meters long.