Origin
The orca (scientific name Orcinus orca, also called the killer whale) is the largest member of the dolphin family. Orcas are easy to recognize because of their characteristic black and white colors, and are considered highly intelligent animals.
Orca can reach 10 meters in length and weigh about 7 tons. despite her massive waist, she can move with speed.
Orcas often travel in groups, surface to survey areas and communicate with sounds. It was found that the orca easily gets used in captivity and accepts the closeness of man, to whom they even show attachment.
They can be found in most of the world's oceans, but prefer cold and temperate waters. Some populations migrate, while others remain local populations, possibly traveling short distances and predictable routes.
The orc population is estimated at 50,000.
Orca Food
Their diet includes fish, cephalopods, other marine mammals (including other species of whales, which they hunt in groups using different strategies). When hunting they can reach speeds of up to 60 km/h.
Their favorite food is tuna (Thunnus thynnus), which is why orcas can often be seen chasing fishing vessels; to the dismay of fishermen, they often break nets to reach the coveted delicacy. There have been no reports of killer whales attacking people or vessels.
They also feed on cephalopods, cuttlefish, squid and less often, marine mammals: dolphins, especially seals and sea otters.
Orca Features
Orcas are marine mammals that can reach 10 meters in length and weigh about 7 tons. Orcas often travel in groups and are easily recognized by their characteristic black and white colors.
The name killer whale is due to the strong jaws of this animal, and long and sharp teeth, of conical shape, 50 in number.
Social life is very active, they live in groups consisting of several families, a family numbering 4-5 members. The hierarchy of groups is developed on a matriarchal system. Studies have shown that each group has a special dialect, its members recognizing each other through language.
Like any whale and orca it is addicted to sounds in the water. It makes up to 3 different types of sounds.
Orca Breeding
The gestation period of these mammals is 16-17 months. At birth, puppies weigh an average of 180 kg, and are breastfed for 2 years.
Orcas live between 50 and 80 years in the wild.
