Orcas Ramming Sunfish: A New Feeding or Play Behaviour Documented off Mexico

In July 2024 marine biologist Dr Kathryn Ayres of the non-profit Beneath The Waves recorded a female orca gripping the tail of a dead sunfish while a second adult male accelerated and struck the carcass at high speed. The impact shattered the fish into thousands of fragments, producing a loud “crunch” and a plume of white tissue. A juvenile whale then fed on the pieces while the adults consumed the remaining carcass. A second, similar incident was captured by a tourism operator in September 2025 in the Gulf of California. In both cases the sunfish—among the world’s largest fish, reaching over three metres in length and up to 2,000 kg in weight—was already dead when the orcas rammed it, suggesting the manoeuvre is a processing technique rather than a killing strike.

The GuardianOrcas are filmed smashing a two-tonne fish into bite-sized baby food

Researchers propose two main explanations. One hypothesis is that ramming breaks the sunfish’s tough, rubbery capsule into bite-size fragments that juveniles with smaller jaws can handle. Another view emphasizes orca culture: the species is known for “social fads and boisterous games” that may have no obvious practical purpose. The behaviour may also provide nutritional benefits by dispersing the fish’s unique microbiome, potentially aiding immune regulation, though this remains speculative.

The Guardian

The dramatic footage has been captured using underwater drones and GoPro cameras deployed by eco-tour operators. While such technology expands scientific knowledge, Mexican authorities introduced new regulations on swimming with orcas last year to mitigate disturbance from wildlife tourism. Researchers stress that maintaining a respectful distance is essential for both animal welfare and continued documentation of rare behaviours.

The Guardian

• “We think this may help younger orcas feed more easily or it could also just be for fun. Orcas are known for playing with their food.” — Dr Kathryn Ayres, marine biologist

The Guardian

• “When you see a multi-ton apex predator charge a massive fish at that speed right next to your boat, the sheer acoustic thud and the resulting explosion of tissue are overwhelming,” — Erick Higuera

The Guardian

• “They throw kelp at each other, surf in boat wakes and engage in intricate tactical games,” — Erick Higuera

The Guardian

• “If we can maintain a respectful distance and protect these animals, continuing this collaboration with tour operators will allow us to safely document mysteries of ocean life that would otherwise remain completely hidden from science,” — Erick Higuera

The Guardian