Scientists have recorded 34 cases of wild killer whales offering food to humans. (Photo courtesy of Orca Research Trust)
Wild killer whales sometimes approach people and offer them food, but scientists can't explain exactly why they do it, according to a new study.
Researchers have documented numerous cases of killer whales (Orcinus orca), also known as killer whales, dropping their prey and various sea creatures in front of humans. In almost all cases, the whales expected a reaction from humans to their offerings, and sometimes attempted to offer food several times. Items offered included fish, some whales, birds, rays, seaweed, and a turtle.
Scientists aren't sure what's behind the behavior, which has been observed in different populations of killer whales for more than 20 years. However, killer whales are known for their food-sharing habits, according to a new study published June 30 in the Journal of Comparative Psychology.
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Sourse: www.livescience.com
