Latest / How To Protect The Ocean
Orca Allokelping: Newly Documented Mutual Grooming Tool Use in Marine Mammals
Orca Allokelping is the newly documented behavior where southern resident killer whales use bull kelp as a tool to rub against each other—possibly to remove dead skin and soothe irritation. Captured via drone, this social spa-like behavior, known as allokelping, reveals a rare example of cooperative tool use in the wild. Scientists believe it serves both physical and social functions, strengthening bonds within pods and supporting skin health.
Kelp grooming is more than just orca hygiene. It highlights the intelligence and cultural complexity of these endangered whales. The discovery comes…
The skinny
The skinny isn't ready yet — notes appear once the transcript is processed.