Orca

Better known as Killer Whales, despite the fact that they aren’t whales. Or killers*.

Orcas are actually the largest members of the dolphin family (delphinidae), and live in family groups, or pods, of up to 30-40 members. Which is more than a little impressive when you consider their size. Adults can grow 30’ long and weigh nearly 6 tons! Pods are of two varieties, resident or transient. Resident pods typically feast on large fish, which they hunt using echolocation. Transient pods are more likely to target marine mammals, seals, sea lions, or even other whales.

*No recorded cases exist of a wild orca attacking a human. The only human fatalities as a result of orca attack occurred, after years of abuse, in captivity at Sea World. Blackfish is a documentary that traces the story, and is well worth watching, even if their angle leaves a little to be desired. The message at the core of the documentary however, is indisputable: These magnificent, intelligent animals should NOT be held in captivity, under any circumstances.

Making it happen

While Orca pods can be found the world over, typically near the coast, there are some areas with higher concentrations that offer a good likelihood of spotting them on a whale watching tour. Few animals in the world are as instantly recognizable or majestic as an orca. Seeing one, or a few dozen, in the wild is a memory that will last a lifetime. Norway, Alaska, Vancouver, Washington, Oregon, and Iceland are considered prime orca territory. Antarctica is a great bet too, but.. you know, really far away.