The orca (Orcinus orca), or killer whale, is a toothed whale and the largest member of the oceanic dolphin family. The only extant species in the genus Orcinus, it is recognizable by its distinct …

Jan 2, 2026 · More than 20 species names have been applied to the killer whale, but a consensus now recognizes only O. orca. Killer whales were formerly referred to as grampuses, but that …

A wild orca pod can cover over 99 miles (160 kilometers) a day, foraging and socializing. They were give the name "killer whale" by ancient sailors who saw them preying on large whales. …

Learn facts about the orca’s habitat, diet, life history, and more.

Orcas are highly intelligent, social mammals that have long been a part of marine park entertainment, performing shows for audiences. However, it's become increasingly clear that …

Aug 18, 2025 · Scientific studies have revealed many different populations with several distinct ecotypes (or forms) of killer whales worldwide—some of which may be different species or …

Calves at birth weigh about 180 kg and are about 2.4 m long (8 ft). The Killer Whale's large size and strength make them the fastest marine mammals, often reaching speeds in excess of 56 …

Jan 28, 2025 · Orcas are often called killer whales, even though they almost never attack humans. They live in every ocean around the world, from the warm waters near the equator to …

Orcas are very easy to spot in the ocean—their iconic black and white coloring gives them away. Orcas are incredibly powerful hunters and eat fish, seals, sharks and more. People began …

Type C orcas in the Ross Sea in the Southern Ocean: The eye patch slants forward. Orcas or killer whales have a cosmopolitan distribution and several distinct populations or types have …