Orca

Orca or Killer Whale (Orcinus orca) is a toothed whale belonging to the oceanic dolphin family, of which it is the largest member.

Description

Killer whales have a diverse diet, although individual populations often specialize in particular types of prey. Some feed exclusively on fish, while others hunt marine mammals such as seals and other species of dolphin. They have been known to attack baleen whale calves, and even adult whales. Killer whales are apex predators, as no animal preys on them.

Behavior

Killer whales are highly social; some populations are composed of matrilineal family groups (pods) which are the most stable of any animal species. Their sophisticated hunting techniques and vocal behaviors, which are often specific to a particular group and passed across generations, have been described as manifestations of animal culture.

Distribution

The killer whale's sophisticated hunting techniques and vocal behaviors, which are often specific to a particular group and passed across generations, have been described as manifestations of animal culture. They are found in oceans all over the world, particularly in the colder waters of the Arctic and Antarctic.

Conservation

Killer whales are not considered a threat to humans, but there have been cases of captive orcas killing or injuring their handlers at marine theme parks. Killer whales feature strongly in the mythologies of indigenous cultures, with their reputation ranging from being the souls of humans to merciless killers.

See also

• Dolphin
• Whale
• Marine biology
• Oceanography

External links

• National Geographic - Orca
• World Wildlife Fund - Orca

Orca Resources
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