Archive · 24 Jun 2025
Drones Spot Orcas Using Kelp Tools For Grooming
Orcas, or killer whales, are super smart dolphins!
Scientists have discovered that they use kelp (seaweed) as a tool.
They break off pieces of kelp and rub them on each other like they are grooming.
This is the first time scientists have seen this type of tool-assisted grooming in marine animals.
The orcas are often seen doing this with their family.
The discovery shows that orcas are not only intelligent but also have a social life, using tools to help each other.
They also belong to the most well-studied group of orcas.
Because of the danger to the orcas, researchers are working to monitor and protect them.
Researchers observed orcas using kelp as a tool for grooming.
Orcas break off kelp stalks and rub them on each other.
This behavior, termed "allokelping," is a form of tool-assisted grooming.
The study focuses on the well-studied Southern Resident killer whales in the Salish Sea.
The discovery highlights the intelligence and social behavior of orcas, as well as tool use in marine mammals.
- Who
- Researchers observed orcas.
- What
- Orcas use kelp as a tool for grooming, termed "allokelping".
- When
- The behavior was observed during a recent study.
- Where
- The Salish Sea, where Southern Resident killer whales live.
- Why
- The orcas may use this to maintain their skin and also show social behavior.
- Orca Type
- Southern Resident Killer Whales
- Location
- Salish Sea, Pacific Northwest
- Tool
- Kelp Stalks
- Behavior
- Tool-assisted grooming
- Study Duration
- Ongoing, nearly 50 years of observation
- Conservation Status
- Critically endangered