SEATTLE, WA — A pod of transient orcas that recently surprised whale watchers near Seattle was reportedly not on a hunting expedition or migrating, but rather desperately seeking a place to recharge their various marine devices. Eyewitness accounts suggest the orcas were exhibiting behaviors consistent with modern smartphone users low on battery, including circling anxiously and occasionally breaching to check for cell service.

“They kept nudging the ferry, almost as if they were asking for directions to the nearest charging station,” reported local whale watching guide Brenda Carlson, who initially believed the pod was engaged in a complex feeding strategy. “One of them even held up what looked like a waterproof tablet. I swear it had a blinking low-battery icon.”

Dr. Finnian O’Malley, a leading expert in cetacean digital habits from the Institute for Aquatic Connectivity, confirmed the theory. “Our preliminary analysis of their vocalizations indicates a high frequency of phrases like ‘Does anyone have a spare lightning cable?’ and ‘Is this 5G up here?’ It’s a common issue for highly mobile marine mammals; battery life is a constant struggle.”

Local authorities are now considering installing underwater charging stations and Wi-Fi hotspots to accommodate the increasingly connected marine population. “We understand the need to stay connected, even if you’re a 10-ton apex predator,” stated a spokesperson for the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department. “We’re exploring options, perhaps even a Starbucks partnership for a ‘Whale-Friendly Charging Zone.’”

The orcas eventually departed, presumably after locating a less crowded outlet in a quieter cove, leaving behind a faint scent of desperation and a few dropped Wi-Fi signals.