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 …

Copyright, 2026, Ontario Retirement Communities Association. All Rights Reserved.

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 …

11 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.

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...

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 …

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 …

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 …

Calves at birth weigh about 180 kg and are about 2.4 m long (8 ft). The Killer Whale's large size and strength make them the fastest marine mammals, often reaching speeds in excess of 56 km/h …