About the Orca

Orcas are apex predators known for their distinctive black-and-white colouring and highly structured social groups. They are incredibly intelligent and versatile hunters.

They are commonly seen in coastal waters but also inhabit deeper oceanic environments.

Orcas face pollution, depletion of their prey species due to overfishing, and captivity in marine parks. They are also affected by changes in sea temperature and ice cover due to climate change.

Changes in sea ice and temperatures can influence the range and distribution of their prey species, affecting their traditional hunting grounds.

Killer Whale (Orca) Photography

Billy Heaney

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Seagulls impromptu shower

Orcas have a single blowhole located on the top of their head. This blowhole is covered by a muscular flap opening and closing to allow the whale to breathe.

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Orca and calf

A mother orca with calf in the Arctic. Females typically give birth to a single calf, which is nursed for up to two years. Calves stay with their mothers for several years, learning hunting and social skills.

Billy Heaney

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Iceland

Orcas are regularly seen around the coastal regions of Iceland

Orca video from an ExplorEarth Writer

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Where to see Orca

Orcas are found in all oceans, from polar regions like the Arctic and Antarctica to tropical seas.

Interesting facts about Killer Whales (Orcas)

Orcas, also known as killer whales, are the largest members of the dolphin family.

Billy Heaney

Iceland Orca 5 Billy Heaney 385

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