Orcas in Puget Sound spotted wearing ‘Dead Salmon Hats’ again [Video]

WASHINGTON, USA — In an intriguing display of behavior, scientists in Washington state have reported seeing orcas in Puget Sound balancing dead salmon on their heads, a trend now being dubbed the “dead salmon hat.” 

Howard Garrett, co-founder of the Orca Network, described the unusual sight, telling CBC British Columbia News, “The orcas are throwing fish on their heads and carrying them around. That’s unusual behavior for sure.”

While the exact meaning of this behavior remains a mystery, Garrett speculates it could serve as a form of communication, possibly signaling an abundance of salmon in the waters. 

“It’s frivolous, playful, a symbol of maybe there are plenty of fish at that time,” he said.

Fun fact: This isn’t the first time orcas have been seen sporting this “fashion.” Back in 1987, scientists documented at least three whales engaging in this behavior. Garrett noted of …