The orca (Orcinus orca), or killer whale, is a toothed whale and the largest member of the oceanic dolphin family. The only extant species in the genus Orcinus, it is recognizable by its distinct …

A wild orca pod can cover over 99 miles (160 kilometers) a day, foraging and socializing. They were give the name "killer whale" by ancient sailors who saw them preying on large whales. …

Orcas are highly intelligent, social mammals that have long been a part of marine park entertainment, performing shows for audiences. However, it's become increasingly clear that …

Learn facts about the orca’s habitat, diet, life history, and more.

Nov 19, 2025 · More than 20 species names have been applied to the killer whale, but a consensus now recognizes only O. orca. Killer whales were formerly referred to as …

Aug 18, 2025 · Scientific studies have revealed many different populations with several distinct ecotypes (or forms) of killer whales worldwide—some of which may be different species or …

Discover more about orcas aka killer whales, How big orcas are and what an orca eats along with the issues and threats they are facing and how you can help.

Nov 14, 2025 · Dramatic video captures seal escaping orca hunt by leaping onto photographer's boat The orcas tried to knock the seal back into the water by creating waves to rock the boat.

Jan 28, 2025 · Orcas are often called killer whales, even though they almost never attack humans. They live in every ocean around the world, from the warm waters near the equator to …

Orcas inhabit all oceans of the world but are most numerous in the Arctic, the Antarctic and areas in nutrient-rich cold water upwellings. They have been sighted along the shores of …