Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Orcas Display Playful Mud-Churning Behavior in Puget Sound

12/3/2025

28 7

Summary

Story summary

The Orca Behavior Institute and the Center for Whale Research observed Bigg’s orcas churning mud in shallow Puget Sound waters while stalking seabirds.
Researchers say the behavior was not for hunting and may represent practice or play.
The orcas attempted to catch common loons and surf scoters during the activity.
A pod chased a rhinoceros auklet for about half an hour.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Orca Behavior Institute and the Center for Whale Research observed Bigg’s orcas churning mud in shallow Puget Sound waters while stalking seabirds.
Researchers say the behavior was not for hunting and may represent practice or play.
The orcas attempted to catch common loons and surf scoters during the activity.
A pod chased a rhinoceros auklet for about half an hour.