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 the largest member of the dolphin family and a highly social apex predator found in oceans worldwide.
What it is
Orcas are toothed whales in the dolphin family, despite the common name "killer whale." They are the only living species in their genus and are known for their distinctive black-and-white coloration, tall dorsal fin in males, and large size—adults typically reach 7–10 metres and weigh up to 6 tonnes.
Key details
Orcas are apex predators with a highly varied diet that depends on the population: some specialise in fish, while others hunt seals, sea lions, seabirds, sharks, or even other whales. They live in all oceans, from polar to tropical waters, and are especially common in cooler coastal regions. In the wild, they can live 50–80 years.
Why it matters
Orcas are a significant species in Canadian marine conservation and Indigenous coastal cultures, particularly in British Columbia's coastal waters, where resident and transient populations are closely studied. Wild attacks on humans are extremely rare, and orcas are generally not considered a threat to people.
In short
- Orcas are the largest dolphins, not true whales.
- They are apex predators with population-specific diets.
- Found in all oceans, from polar to tropical seas.
- Important in Canadian marine conservation and Indigenous cultures.
Orcas are especially significant to Canadian readers because they occur in British Columbia’s coastal waters, where resident and transient populations are well known and closely studied. They are also an important species in Canadian marine conservation and Indigenous coastal cultures.
Quick questions
Are orcas whales or dolphins?
Do orcas attack humans?
Where do orcas live?
Sources
- WWF UK — https://www.wwf.org.uk/learn/fascinating-facts/orcasSupports: Largest member of the dolphin family; worldwide distribution; varied diet.
- National Geographic Kids — https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/orcaSupports: Scientific name; size; lifespan; diet; general description.
- National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/orcaSupports: Largest of the dolphins; size; distribution; diet; human attack rarity.
- Orca Network — https://www.orcanetwork.org/orca-resource-center/interesting-orca-factsSupports: Habitat preferences in cooler, productive waters.
- Georgia Strait Alliance — https://georgiastrait.org/work/species-at-risk/orca-protection/killer-whales-pacific-northwest/orca-facts/Supports: Orcas in Pacific Northwest waters; regional Canadian relevance.