Orca spotted wearing dead salmon as hat off Washington coast sparks curiosity

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A recent sighting of an orca wearing a dead salmon on its head off the coast of Washington has revived interest in this unusual behavior. First documented in 1987, scientists still do not understand why orcas engage in this act. Experts suggest the behavior may be playful or a form of social communication among orcas. The recent sighting occurred in Puget Sound, where the orca was seen on October 25, during a time of abundant fish. While some believe this could indicate a return of the "salmon hat" trend from the 1980s, others think it was simply a moment captured while the orca was hunting. The behavior remains a mystery, with no clear explanation for its purpose.


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