Orca

Orcinus orca

Occurring in

Arctic Ocean
North Atlantic
Northern Pacific
South Atlantic
South Indian Ocean

0-500m

DayAndNightActive

potentially at risk

The orca is actually the largest dolphin in the world. It is one of the most intelligent marine mammals and hunts in coordinated groups. The body is black with striking white spots.

Habitat

Open Water

Special Features

The orca is actually the largest dolphin in the world. It is one of the most intelligent marine mammals and hunts in coordinated groups.

orca_orca_whale_whale_divedict_diving

Appearance

The body is black with striking white spots. The dorsal fin of the males can grow over 1.5 meters tall. The animals have powerful teeth and a very muscular body.

Natural Enemies

No natural enemies

Dangerous/Poisons

Not poisonous. Rarely dangerous to humans in the wild.

Pro Tips

Orcas have complex family structures. Each group has its own hunting techniques and even its own “dialects” in their sounds.