SAN DIEGO — Researchers believe a pod of killer whales seen off the coast of San Diego attacked the 50-foot fin whale that was found dead ashore in Pacific Beach last week.
"There were tooth rakes in multiple places. On the dorsal fin, on the back, on the flippers so there was an active attack or heavy harassment of that fin whale shortly before it died," said Alisa Shulman-Janiger.
She studies orcas, commonly known as killer whales, and says it's likely the fin whale swam closer to shore to escape the orcas. Shulman-Janiger said it's rare to find a fin whale attacked by killer whales on the beach.
"In the studies we've done looking at attacks of fin whales in Mexico, we only have one case," she said.
It's rare to spot killer whales off the coast of San Diego in December, but this week a pod was seen on Monday and Tuesday.
"I didn't know killer whales were located out here so that's a little strange for me," said Erica, who lives in Pacific Beach.
Researchers believe they're lingering in our area to feed on dolphins.
"What we're suspecting is the dolphins in southern California may not be very knowledgeable about the dangers of killer whales because it doesn't happen often and the killer whales might be taking advantage of that fact," Shulman-Janiger said.
Whale watching tours have spotted two baby orcas in the pod this week. Researchers say the group might also be sticking around to teach the babies how to hunt. This also could be why they attacked the fin whale.
"Whale on whale crime. I mean I didn't know whales attacked, well I guess they don't attack humans but other animals. I guess it's the cycle of life," said Jazzlyn and Raleigh, who live in Pacific Beach.
Killer whales can also be very curious about people and known to swim up to boats, but typically do not have intention to hurt humans. Researchers say to give them space and avoid crowding them.
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