Orca - Wikipedia
The orca (Orcinus orca), or killer whale, is a toothed whale and the largest member of the oceanic dolphin family. It is the only extant species in the genus Orcinus and is recognizable by its black-and-white patterned body.
Killer Whale - NOAA Fisheries
The killer whale is the largest member of the dolphin family. The population of Southern Resident killer whales in the Pacific Northwest is one of the most critically endangered marine mammals. Learn about our work to protect and conserve killer whales.
New killer whale species: Bigg's and resident killer whales
Mar 27, 2024 · Now a team of scientists from NOAA Fisheries and universities have assembled genetic, physical, and behavioral evidence. The data distinguish two of the killer whale ecotypes of the North Pacific Coast—residents and Bigg’s—as separate species.
Killer whale | Definition & Facts | Britannica
Sep 28, 2024 · killer whale, (Orcinus orca), largest member of the dolphin family (Delphinidae). The killer whale is easy to identify by its size and its striking coloration: jet black on top and pure white below with a white patch behind each eye, another extending up each flank, and a variable “saddle patch” just behind the dorsal fin.
Orcas (Killer whales) - National Geographic
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 coloring.
Meet the different types of orcas - Whale & Dolphin …
Over the last few decades, as wild orca research has expanded, researchers have described different forms or types of orcas. Known as ecotypes, these distinct types of orcas differ in size, appearance, prey preferences, foraging techniques, dialects, behaviours, and social groups. Their ranges often overlap, but they are also genetically ...
Killer whale - IWC
Killer whales, also known as orcas, are an iconic species, long revered by various aboriginal cultures and frequently the stars of animal performances at marine parks. The species has recently made even more famous by films like “Blackfish” and “Free Willy”.
Types of Killer Whales - American Oceans
There are three recognized types of killer whales: resident, transient, and offshore. Resident killer whales are found in the coastal waters of the northeast Pacific Ocean, while transient killer whales are found in the same region but feed on marine mammals.
Orca (Killer Whale) - Whale & Dolphin Conservation USA
Did you know that orcas (killer whales) are the largest member of the dolphin family? With their distinctive black and white patterning and huge dorsal fins, a pod of orcas powering through the waves is one of the most impressive sights in the natural world.
Killer Whale - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Overview. 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.