Northern Resident Killer Whales Observed Engaging in Specialized Beach Rubbing Behavior

Residents along British Columbia's Sunshine Coast documented an unusual display by Northern Resident killer whales (NRKW) during the first days of January 2026. A specific pod was observed engaging in their specialized 'beach rubbing' activity in shallow waters near Secret Beach Park.

The sighting was reported by local observer Ryan Chilibeck and involved members of the A5 pod, a confirmation provided by Jared Towers, the Executive Director of Bay Cetology. The NRKW population, which exclusively inhabits the northeastern Pacific Ocean, is known for this cultural tradition, which is documented in only a few killer whale groups globally. This interaction involves the whales deliberately positioning their bodies to rub their undersides against smooth, rounded pebbles on the shore.

Researchers like Towers, who conducts field research on cetaceans for over 100 days annually, hypothesize that the rubbing aids in exfoliation, as killer whale skin is constantly sloughing off, or that it functions as a form of social bonding and cultural reinforcement. The tactile sensation against the stones may also provide sensory pleasure for the highly sensitive marine mammals.

The A5 pod, identified as the group performing the activity, belongs to the A clan within the Northern Resident orcas and is currently composed of approximately 15 individuals across three distinct matrilines: the A23s, A25s, and A42s. While this behavior is common within the NRKW families, witnessing it is a rare event for human observers. The observation near the Sunshine Coast suggests the pod utilized specific rubbing locations known for favorable pebble compositions.

Critical habitats for these animals are subject to stringent protection measures to ensure the continuation of these cultural behaviors. The Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve, established in 1982, is legally designated as Critical Habitat for Northern Resident Killer Whales under the Species at Risk Act. Located on the Johnstone Strait coastline, this reserve is the only sanctuary for killer whales on Canada's west coast and holds global significance.

Within this protected zone, all forms of human disturbance, including motorized and non-motorized vessels, are prohibited to prevent interference with activities such as feeding, socializing, and beach rubbing. The Robson Bight Warden Program, operated by the Cetus Research & Conservation Society since 2005, actively monitors the perimeter to uphold these regulations. The study of such unique cultural traits offers profound insights into the social structure and complex traditions passed down through generations of these fish-eating orcas, who selectively target fatty Chinook salmon.