In the middle of February, the sea lions receive the second visit of their most feared predators – the killer whales.
The sea lion colonies are full of young, inexperienced pups, playing on the shore, and hundreds of adults going into and out of the sea to feed. Food is everywhere, and what’s more it’s easy to catch.
With the enemy around, everyone is on their guard.
The killer whales attack in family groups, led by the oldest female. Each group has its own communication sounds, and hunting techniques which they practice with the young. This organisation enables them to hunt not only fish, sea lions and elephant seals, but even sharks and large cetaceans.
Gradually, blood loss and the exertion weaken the prey. Attacks become increasingly slow and spaced out. Very soon, it will no longer be able to defend itself, and will die.
After a struggle that has lasted over 45 minutes, the elephant seal dies and is devoured by the family of killer whales.
source: www.youtube.com
With the enemy around, everyone is on their guard.
The killer whales attack in family groups, led by the oldest female. Each group has its own communication sounds, and hunting techniques which they practice with the young. This organisation enables them to hunt not only fish, sea lions and elephant seals, but even sharks and large cetaceans.
Gradually, blood loss and the exertion weaken the prey. Attacks become increasingly slow and spaced out. Very soon, it will no longer be able to defend itself, and will die.
After a struggle that has lasted over 45 minutes, the elephant seal dies and is devoured by the family of killer whales.
source: www.youtube.com
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