Researchers have documented a previously unknown hunting behavior in orcas, showing the marine predators deliberately smashing giant sunfish into thousands of pieces before feeding.
According to findings published in Frontiers in Ethology, the behavior was observed among orcas in Mexico's Gulf of California and has been named the "ram-to-fragment" technique.
The report said sharptail sunfish possess a tough, collagen-rich outer layer that makes them difficult to consume.
To overcome this, one orca holds the carcass in place while another accelerates into it with force, breaking it into smaller fragments that are easier to eat.
Marine biologist Erick Higuera Rivas first observed the behavior in 2021, with additional encounters recorded by divers in 2024 and 2025.
Scientists now hope to determine whether the behavior is unique to this population or is a culturally learned hunting technique passed between generations.
They also emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe distance while studying these highly intelligent marine mammals.
Related Tweet:
Scientists say orcas may be smashing into much smaller sunfishes for fun. https://t.co/fnuHr4krBv
— NBC News (@NBCNews) July 23, 2026
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