Tag

Gray Whales

All articles tagged with #gray whales

animal-behavior2 years ago

"Gray Whale Seeks Human Assistance in Parasite Removal"

A video captured in Mexico shows a gray whale seeking help from a whale-watching captain to have parasites picked off its head. The captain, Paco Jimenez Franco, has been working in the industry for 20 years and has developed a bond with the whales. The footage shows the whale approaching the boat and spinning around as Franco removes whale lice from its head. Gray whales have a "love-hate relationship" with these parasites, which can be beneficial but also irritating due to their sharp claws. The incident highlights the unique interaction between humans and marine animals in the region.

environment2 years ago

Orca pod inflicts severe injuries on two gray whales in California.

A pod of over 30 orcas attacked two adult gray whales in California's Monterey Bay, causing significant injuries. Orcas are known to be the only major predator of gray whales, but usually hunt calves rather than adults. The attack on adults is unusual and could signify an underlying problem with the gray whale population. Hunger is a potent motivator for orcas to take on adults, but the risk of injury must be weighed against the reward of feasting on more whale meat. The incident offers an insight into the orcas' hunting prowess and ambition.