Killer Whale (Orca) Facts

Study Notes

Killer whales are a type of dolphin and are the largest member of the dolphin family.
Killer whales prey on a diet of fish, seals, and even large marine mammals such as whales.
Killer whales are the only known non-human animal to have evolved based on culture.
Killer whales are found in all oceans of the world.
Most males never leave their mothers and they die eight times more often when their mothers die.
Killer whales go through menopause two years ago to focus their attention on the survival of their families rather than on birthing more offspring.
Killer whales are apex predators and have no natural predators.
There are several types of orcas, and each has its own unique vocalizations.
Killer whales have a heavy brain and are well-equipped for memory and sensing.
Killer whales are the largest and most powerful animals in the ocean.
They can live up to 80 years in the wild, and up to 50 years in captivity.
They eat a variety of animals, including sharks.
They can control the flow of blood to their organs, which helps them to stay underwater for long periods of time.
They spend most of their time looking for food, and have been known to travel hundreds of miles to find it.
Killer whales are among the fastest swimming marine mammals.
They can swim as fast as 48 kph (30 mph), but they usually cruise at much slower speeds, about 3-10 kph (2-6 mph).
They are very fast swimmers.
They are in "season" during the summer months.