US EditionOrcas use kelp tools to groom and bond off B.C.’s coast, study suggests
SALISH SEA, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA, JUN 23 – Critically endangered Southern Resident orcas use kelp pieces as tools to groom and bond, with 30 instances recorded during a 2024 study in the Salish Sea, researchers said.
- Researchers observed southern resident orcas off the coasts of Washington State and British Columbia using kelp as tools to groom one another during summer 2024.
- This behavior, named allokelping, was discovered through drone observations after nearly 50 years of studying this critically endangered orca population in the Salish Sea.
- Orcas snapped ends of bull kelp stalks then rolled the kelp between bodies to massage partners, suggesting social grooming and possible skin exfoliation benefits.
- The team recorded 30 instances over 12 days between April and July 2024, with Michael Weiss calling the tool use 'incredibly exciting' and unique among marine mammals.
- This finding highlights the importance of continued monitoring and protecting the orcas and may expand understanding of their complex social behaviors and culture.
157 Articles
157 Articles
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It is the first time that marine mammals have been found to “make and use tools”.
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