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 …

Mar 25, 2026 · 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 …

ORCA is dedicated to the protection and restoration of aquatic ecosystems and the species they sustain through the development of innovative technologies, science-based conservation action and …

Mar 13, 2026 · 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 a …

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...

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

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, …

Learn facts about killer whales (orca), including their size, diet and conservation status, plus insights gained during our 25 years of marine mammal research.

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 …

Mar 4, 2026 · Killer whales, or orcas, are apex saltwater predators, swimming through every ocean and dining on a remarkable variety of prey — even slaughtering great white sharks for their livers and …