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 …

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 subspecies. They …

2 days ago · 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 grampuses, but that term is now …

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 orcas do not...

12 hours ago · A rare visit from a mysterious trio of killer whales has sparked excitement among whale researchers and wildlife watchers across the West Coast.

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

They are known as Orcas, Killer Whales or – off the west coast of North America – Blackfish. They are found in all of the world’s major oceans, covering all latitudes, and inhabit both coastal waters and …

Orcas are very easy to spot in the ocean—their iconic black and white coloring gives them away. Orcas are incredibly powerful hunters and eat fish, seals, sharks and more. People began calling orcas …

What’s life like for an orca? Orcas live in family pods of up to 50 individuals. Calves do not leave their mothers’ sides when they become adults, and you’ll sometimes find pods containing four …

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 Washington, …