Orcas are instantly recognisable; large black dorsal fins (an adult male’s dorsal can stand 6 foot!) and distinctive white and black colouration. Orcas are actually the largest member of the dolphin family; – the name ‘killer whale’ comes from the fact that some populations prey on whales.
Orcas are highly mobile and can travel at speeds of 35 mph, which enables them to travel vast distances in short periods of time. The animals are very intelligent and can be inquisitive; approaching boats, spy hopping and tail slapping. While the migratory orca pods are opportunistic feeders and will eat a variety of prey (including eider ducks!) the small pod off the west coast are thought to be exclusively marine mammal eaters.
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