Orcas, also known as killer whales,  aren't a whale at all. Instead, it’s the largest member of the dolphin family. The orca is easy to identify by its size and distinctive colors. It has black on top and white below, with a white patch behind each eye and another extending up each side. A gray or white “saddle patch” that’s a different shape on each killer whale is located just behind the dorsal fin (the fin on the animal’s back). Males often reach a length of more than 26 feet. They weigh about 5 tons. Females are about 3 feet shorter and weigh less. Males also have larger flippers and fins. The dorsal fin of a male can be up to 6 feet tall. The jaws hold more than 40 curved teeth. Most of the teeth are about 4 inches long.

Killer whales live in all the oceans of the world. They often are found in cold waters near coastlines. But they also live in warm, tropical waters.

Killer whales spend most of the day hunting. Their prey includes salmon and other fish, seabirds, seals, and other whales. Orcas sometimes hunt on their own. Some have been seen jumping out of the water to snatch penguins or seals. Sometimes they hunt in groups, attacking prey from different sides. Killer whales usually swallow their prey whole.

On top of the head is a blowhole, through which the whale breathes. Inside the skull is the largest brain of all the dolphins. Killer whales are highly social and live in small groups called pods. Each pod numbers up to 40 individuals. Individuals in pods often work together to herd prey before stunning it with their tails. Killer whales normally feed on large prey such as tuna, salmon, seals, squid, sea lions, penguins, whales, and other dolphins.