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Reproduction
Reproduction
Female killer whales reach sexual maturity at about 10 to 13 years old and are pregnant for 15 to 18 months when they give birth to a singular calf. killer whales are polygynandrous, which means both male and females have multiple mates throughout the season or a lifetime. killer whales can reproduce whenever a female is in estrus, which can occur multiple times a year. However, most breeding happens in the summer. Females have a calf every 6 to 10 years and they stop mating at around 40. New born calves usually stop nursing at around 1 years old before weaning. During a calves life with its mother, it is taught how to hunt, and the mother includes it in the social network of their pods. Because killer whales are not monogamous, it is assumed that the fathers do not hold any parental involvement after mating, the calf relies on its mother for nutrition and support.
Lifecycle
Lifecycle
The average lifespan for a male is about 30 years, but they can live up to about 60 years old. Females typically live up to 60 years old, but can also live up to 90 years in the wild. A killer whale's mortality rate varies depending on the whale's age. After a calf becomes independent, it will remain in their natal pod. Neonatal mortality is very high, in captivity neonatal mortality is between 37% and 50%. The reason behind this is unknown, but predation does not seem to be a threat at this time. After about six months, mortality rates begin to steadily lower as calves learn how to hunt and protect themselves. Mortality rates seem to be at the lowest around 12 to 13 years for males, and 20 years in females.
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