Story: Orcas

Bryde’s whale attacked by orcas

Bryde’s whale attacked by orcas

This 18-tonne Bryde’s whale was found floating in the Hauraki Gulf in August 2004. It had been attacked and killed by a pod of orcas which tore out and ate its huge tongue, an orca delicacy. Fatty flesh along its back had also been eaten. Note the orca toothmarks in the centre of the photo.

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How to cite this page:

Gerard Hutching, 'Orcas - Orcas in New Zealand', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/4657/brydes-whale-attacked-by-orcas (accessed 24 April 2024)

Story by Gerard Hutching, published 12 Jun 2006