Orca

The orca (*Orcinus orca*), also known as the killer whale, is a toothed whale and the largest member of the dolphin family.

The orca (Orcinus orca), also known as the killer whale, is a toothed whale and the largest member of the dolphin family. It is a highly social marine mammal and an apex predator found in oceans worldwide, with a diet that varies by population.

Classification

The orca is a marine mammal in the dolphin family, not a true whale in the everyday sense. Its scientific name is Orcinus orca, and it is the only living species in its genus.

Physical characteristics

Orcas are recognisable by their black-and-white coloration, tall dorsal fin in males, and large body size. Adult males are generally larger than females.

Diet and behaviour

Orcas are apex predators with different populations specialising in different prey. Some focus on fish, while others hunt marine mammals or larger prey using complex cooperative behaviour.

Distribution and habitat

Orcas are found in all the world’s oceans and occur from polar regions to tropical seas. They are especially common in cooler coastal and productive waters, though their range is global. In Canada, orcas are notably found in British Columbia's coastal waters, where resident and transient populations are well known and closely studied.

Relationship with humans

Orcas have long been known to people and are popular in marine research and wildlife tourism. Wild attacks on humans are extremely uncommon, and orcas are generally not considered a normal threat to people. They are also an important species in Canadian marine conservation and Indigenous coastal cultures.