Humpback and Orca Hunting Strategies

In the 20th century, whales in the Sea of Okhotsk were nearly hunted to extinction. With whaling ended, these large mammals, including humpback whales and orcas, are returning. Orcas live in family pods led by a dominant female and hunt herring using coordinated tactics. Humpback whales also hunt in groups, using bubble nets to capture fish. Both species demonstrate unique and effective hunting strategies.

What was the primary reason for the near extinction of whales in the Sea of Okhotsk during the 20th century?

• Natural predators

• Hunting

• Pollution

• Climate change

Which member leads an orca family pod?

• Oldest male

• Dominant female

• Youngest member

• Dominant male

What is the primary target of orcas when they hunt in the Sea of Okhotsk?

• Seals

• Herring

• Squid

• Dolphins

How do orcas catch their prey during a hunt?

• By using their teeth to bite

• By chasing them until they tire

• By trapping them in a net

• By stunning them with their tails

What happens to the herring after the orca pod has fed?

• They migrate to another sea

• They disperse

• They are all eaten

• They reproduce immediately

How long might it take for an orca pod to find another large group of herring?

• Months

• Weeks

• Days

• Years

What unique method do humpback whales use to catch fish?

• Using their tails to stun fish

• Creating a bubble net

• Using their teeth to bite fish

• Chasing fish to exhaustion

What is the purpose of the bubble net created by humpback whales?

• To trap air for breathing

• To confuse predators

• To communicate with other whales

• To drive fish to the surface

What is the main similarity between orcas and humpback whales in their hunting strategies?

• Both hunt in groups

• Both hunt alone

• Both rely on speed

• Both use bubble nets