Check out the video here: Orcas Hunting and Humpbacks Run Interference
Our private charter on Sanctuary Cruises WhaleWatching under the expert care of Joseph Stagnaro went beyond our expectations. Joanna Ladd first spotted the iconic and impressive dorsal fin of “Jimmy” a male Orca whale who often associates with Aurora’s pod or her daughter, Andi’s pod. Yesterday, Jimmy, Andi and her daughter Astrid among a few other female orcas were hunting sea lions when humpback whales began arriving from every direction to harass the Orcas. It was truly profound observing the apex predator on the hunt with humpback whales running interference.
Young humpback calves are vulnerable to Orca attacks as they migrate from their birthing grounds in Mexico. Female adult humpbacks are massive and powerful. She will defend her own calf and as we saw yesterday, will attempt to spoil the attack on our local sea lions. The question that comes to mind…..Is this an act of altruism, true care for another species, an attempt to foul the success of the apex predator or a combination of both? Humpback whales have a region of the brain containing a network of spindle cells. In humans, spindle cells are responsible for empathy, gut feelings, speech and intuition regarding the feelings of others. Once again, we reflect on yesterday’s encounter with profound wonder. We are beyond grateful for life among the Santa Cruz community on the edge of Monterey Bay where we call home.Next private charter for women is October 25th, a halloween theme with prizes for the best ocean themed costume. Book it here: https://bookeo.com
