Recently our boat had the extraordinary luck to come across the T065B’s in action! This matrilineal line is made up of three orcas; a female known as “Chunk,” her son “Birdsall,” and her newest calf, “T065B2,” born in 2019.
Much of the hunting action happens under the surface, but on this day a Steller’s sea lion displayed defensive posturing on the surface in a fight for his life that went on for well over two hours. It was absolutely fascinating to witness and document the strategies used for both species; truly a once-in-a-lifetime observation. School was in session for T065B2, observing its mother’s and older brother’s strategies in these matters of life and death. (Life and death for the prey, but also for the predator - if they do not make the kill, they'd starve).
The orcas would circle around to attack, ramming the sea lion, breaching or cartwheeling on top of him to attempt to drown him, or the male would circle in front to distract him while the mother orca would grab him from underneath and pull him under.
The sea lion would float tail-up as they circled back to him, likely baring his teeth underwater in defensive posturing. As they approached he would level out on the surface facing the nearest opponent. After the attacks he would rest at the surface briefly, catching his breath, then would go tail-up, resuming his defensive posturing. We have over 100 video clips of repeated attacks and defense. The sea lion fought bravely, but was eventually drowned and eaten. Nature in action! Photos by Liberty
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