What sea animal even the ocean's king, the orca, flees at the sound of its cry?

Studies show that orcas react defensively when they hear the calls of false killer whales, a dolphin species.

Observations and acoustic experiments found orcas often leave first, then tighten formation, change direction, and speed up.

The findings suggest even apex predators have rivals to avoid, shedding light on predator relationships and acoustic communication in the ocean.

Research cited in Scientific Reports and covered by ScienceAlert drew on encounters in places such as the Strait of Gibraltar and Iceland.