Over 60 orcas take down endangered pygmy blue whale off WA coast

In a rare and dramatic display of predation, more than 60 orcas attacked and killed a pygmy blue whale off the coast of Bremer Bay, Australia. Witnesses from Naturaliste Charters reported that the intense hunt lasted about 40 minutes, during which the orcas worked in coordinated groups, showcasing their intelligence and hunting skills. This incident marks only the fourth recorded occurrence of orcas successfully hunting a blue whale species, highlighting their role as apex predators in the ocean. Marine biologists noted that the attack was chaotic yet organized, with orcas smothering the whale and preventing its escape. The pygmy blue whale, an endangered species, was seen covered in bite marks, and the event left both scientists and tourists in awe and shock. This predation event serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by blue whales and the complexity of marine ecosystems.