Surprisingly, killer whales give fish to humans.

Scientists have just published research revealing a strange but fascinating phenomenon: killer whales around the world are consistently giving humans 'gifts' of fish and squid.

Many killer whales – the apex predators of the ocean – have sought to give gifts to humans and observe their reactions. (Photo: Center for Whale Research)

Over the past 20 years, the research team has documented at least 34 instances of killer whales approaching swimmers, fishermen, or tourists on boats, gently dropping prey in front of them and patiently waiting to see their reaction.

According to a research team from Canada, New Zealand, and Mexico, these events occurred in various sea regions including California, New Zealand, Norway, and Patagonia. Of these, 11 occurred while people were underwater, 21 while they were on boats, and 2 right on the shore.

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In each event, the whales approached and actively offered their food in front of the humans (not because the humans got too close). Notably, almost all of the whales lingered after giving their "gift." They appeared curious, waiting to see the humans' reactions, seemingly wanting to observe how they interacted. They even tried to offer more food seven times when the recipients refused.

Jared Towers, lead author from Bay Cetology in British Columbia, Canada, said: "Killer whales often share food within their pods to strengthen bonds. Their sharing with humans may reflect their concern and efforts to establish a connection with us."

The behavior of sharing prey between wild animals and humans is rare. In the wild, orcas are known for their intelligence, close-knit pods, and use food sharing to build bonds not only with relatives but also with unrelated individuals. They are also skilled hunters, often taking down prey larger than themselves, so they have surplus food to "give away."

Experts believe that offering food may also be a practice of learned cultural behavior, a form of exploration , play, and experimentation in building relationships with humans. Because of their complex cognitive abilities and high social nature, killer whales may have multiple motives and purposes behind this seemingly simple act.

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New research published in the Journal of Comparative Psychology marks a significant step forward in understanding the interspecies relationship between humans and the intelligent "kings" of the ocean.

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VNA

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/la-lung-ca-voi-sat-thu-tang-ca-cho-nguoi-20250706121618378.htm