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 …

What are orcas? Orcas, or killer whales, are the largest of the dolphins and one of the world's most powerful predators. They're immediately recognizable by their distinctive black-and-white...

Orcas (also known as killer whales) are marine mammals. They belong to the sub-order of toothed whales (known as odontocetes) but are also the largest member of the dolphin family.

Killer Whales are distinctively marked, with a black back, white chest and sides, and a white patch above and behind the eye. Calves are born with a yellowish or orange tint, which fades to white. Killer …

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 subspecies. They …

Dec 2, 2025 · Orcas are called killer whales because of their reputation as powerful predators in the marine world. The name comes from ancient sailors who watched orcas hunting large marine animals.

Discover more about orcas aka killer whales, How big orcas are and what an orca eats along with the issues and threats they are facing and how you can help.

Even though orcas can see above and below water, it is their hearing and echolocation abilities that help them locate objects in the water. By emitting clicks and listening for echoes, orcas are able to …

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 the icy depths …

Orcas inhabit all oceans of the world but are most numerous in the Arctic, the Antarctic and areas in nutrient-rich cold water upwellings. They have been sighted along the shores of Washington, …