Orca Mothers: Post-Menopausal Protectors of Their Sons

A study has found that post-menopausal killer whale mothers protect their sons from aggressive encounters with other whales, resulting in fewer tooth-rake marks on their skin. This protective effect was not observed for daughters. The research sheds light on the potential evolutionary advantages of menopause in killer whales, highlighting how experienced female mothers help their sons navigate social relationships. The findings were based on an analysis of nearly 7,000 photographs of southern resident killer whales, showing that males with post-menopausal mothers present had fewer signs of aggressive encounters. The study suggests that mothers may use their knowledge and experience to help their sons avoid conflicts or directly involve themselves in conflicts.