Dec 14, 2020 · Orcas (Orcinus orca), often called Killer Whales, are actually the worlds biggest dolphins and are members of the Delphinidae family which also includes species such as Bottlenose Dolphins and Pilot Whales. They inhabit most of the world’s oceans, ranging from the equator to the polar regions.

Apr 18, 2023 · Our open-access research, recently published in the Journal of Animal Ecology, used a technique called quantitative fatty acid signature analysis to reveal the diets of nearly 200 North Atlantic killer whales. We also measured lipid compositions in over 900 prey samples. The results showed a range of feeding strategies across the ocean.

Apr 14, 2023 · By analyzing small samples of killer whale fat, scientists can learn about the diets of different killer whale populations. This has implications for our understanding of changing ecosystems.

Find out some amazing facts below about the incredible orcas. Orcas are the largest member of the dolphin family. A male orca can be nearly 33 feet (10 meters) in length and weigh around 22,000 pounds (10,000kg). Orcas are highly intelligent and able to coordinate hunting tactics. Female orcas are thought to live to 80 years of age or more.

Feb 17, 2025 · killer whale, (Orcinus orca), largest member of the dolphin family (Delphinidae). The killer whale is easy to identify by its size and its striking coloration: jet black on top and pure white below with a white patch behind each eye, another extending up each flank, and a variable “saddle patch” just behind the dorsal fin.

Blubber is a layer of fat reinforced by collagen and elastic fibers. In general, blubber has a number of important functions: Contributing to a killer whale's streamlined shape, which helps increase swimming efficiency; Storing fat, which provides energy when food is in short supply; Reducing heat loss, which is important for thermoregulation; Skin

In regions where orca prey primarily consists of marine mammals, the higher fat content in animals like seals and whales provides the orcas with the necessary fuel for their daily activities. Essential Nutrients: Like all mammals, orcas require a balance of proteins, fats, and vitamins. Marine mammals are particularly rich in fats, which help ...

Apr 16, 2023 · Now, a new study has demonstrated a new way of knowing more about the precise diet of these creatures. The new technique involves analyzing skin and fat samples from orcas. The findings were...

Feb 24, 2025 · Fortunately, the ocean has a bounty of prey. Since the killer whale is considered an apex predator, many creatures in the ocean are on the orca’s menu. The foods that killer whales eat include: Seals; Sea otters; Harbor porpoise; Salmon; Dugongs; Moose (a rare occurrence, but noteworthy) Humpback whale (calves) Sea turtles; Penguins; Common ...

Nov 21, 2022 · Subtle changes in the body condition of killer whales, such as fat (blubber) loss, can be detected through aerial images to ID animals at risk of starvation.