National Geographic captured humpback whales interrupting orcas that were hunting a seal in Antarctica. But then, Gregory said in the video, two humpback whales appeared out of nowhere. AdvertisementAdvertisementWhile killer whales do not pose a direct threat to adult humpback whales, which are much larger than orcas, killer whales do prey on humpback whale calves. While most people believe the humpbacks are swimming over to save the seal, the seal may actually be swimming toward the humpbacks to save itself. Sea lions and seals have been captured hopping onto boats in order to evade killer whales.

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Persons: Bertie Gregory, Gregory, Leigh Hickmott, Andrew Trites, Trites, Robert Pitman, Pitman Organizations: Geographic, Service, University of St, Marine Mammal Research, University of British, Biologists, US, Oceanic, Atmospheric Administration, Hakai Magazine Locations: Antarctica, Wall, Silicon, Andrews, Scotland, University of British Columbia, Canada, British Columbia