Orca
Orcinus orca
- Where
- Polar and temperate oceans worldwide
- Habitat
- Open ocean, coastal waters, and sometimes rivers
- Diet
- Apex predators - fish, squid, seals, whales
- Size
- Up to 32 feet (9.8 meters) long
- Lifespan
- 50-80 years in the wild
- Conservation
- Listed as Data Deficient due to incomplete research
Fun Facts
- Orca means 'killer whale' but they're actually dolphins!
- They communicate with complex clicks and whistles.
- Each pod has unique dialects like human languages.
Learn More
Black bodies with white patches that help them blend in.
Dorsal fin is curved, not straight like other whales.
Orca fins are very distinctive - the leading edge is curved downward.