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6d ago

Wild Orcas Offer Food to Humans in 34 Documented Cases

Published in the Journal of Comparative Psychology, the study describes orca prey-sharing as interspecies altruism rooted in advanced cognition with a caution against risky human engagement.

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Orcas are highly social creatures that often share prey with each other. Now, new research suggests they're extending this behavior to humans.

Overview

  • Researchers verified 34 instances between 2004 and 2024 of wild orcas intentionally approaching humans and offering at least 18 different prey items, including rays, seals and seaweed.
  • Encounters occurred across multiple regions—from British Columbia and California to New Zealand, Norway and Patagonia—and involved people both in the water and on boats.
  • The analysis applied strict inclusion criteria requiring orcas to initiate contact, drop prey directly before humans and wait for a response, with seven whales repeating their offerings.
  • Authors interpret the behavior as evidence of interspecific generalized altruism and advanced social cognition, suggesting orcas recognize human sentience and curiosity.
  • Study authors strongly advise against soliciting or reciprocating these rare interactions due to potential safety risks for both humans and whales.