Born Killers: How Orcas Became the Most Fearsome Predators of the Ocean

The orca (Orcinus orca) is the largest member of the dolphin family and a highly dangerous predator. Adult males can reach lengths of up to 10 meters; accordingly, they require a lot of food. It is nearly impossible to hide from an orca in the water, but sometimes prey becomes inaccessible — it is on the ice. Does this mean it is safe? Find out the answer for yourself.

Orcas may seem cute, but they are actually fearsome aquatic predators. These animals hunt a variety of species and occupy the top position in the food chain in their habitats.

What do orcas hunt?

Orcas belong to the dolphin family. They are the only members of their family that hunt warm-blooded animals. They can grow up to 9–10 meters long, allowing them to prevail in battles with various marine creatures and feed on them.

In fact, the choice of prey for orcas depends on the region they inhabit. For example, populations in the Norwegian Sea prefer herring and migrate for these fish every season. Other groups of orcas primarily hunt pinnipeds. Based on their dietary preferences, orcas are divided into groups and prefer to hunt cooperatively, which allows them to more effectively obtain food.

In the wild, orcas do not attack humans, but they do not show fear of them either. Humans do not represent an interest as food for these cetaceans. However, if an orca is hungry, it may not refuse human flesh. There have been cases where orcas displayed aggression towards humans, although in captivity.

Cases of Orca Attacks on Humans

Incident in Sidaford. In 1971, in Sidaford, United Kingdom, there was an incident where an orca named “Moray” attacked trainer John Grout. The orca suddenly leaped out of the water and dragged Grout underwater. As a result of this attack, Grout sustained serious injuries but survived.

Incident at SeaWorld. In 2010, at the SeaWorld amusement park in Orlando, Florida, an orca named Tilikum attacked its trainer Dawn Brancheau. It held her underwater for several minutes before she was freed. Brancheau died.

Incident at Loro Parque Water Park. In 2009, an orca named Keiko attacked its trainer at the Loro Parque water park on the island of Tenerife, Spain. The trainer was attacked during a public show and sustained serious injuries.

How Orcas Hunt Seals on Ice

Prey is not always easily obtained by this fearsome predator. A seal, for example, can climb onto an ice floe and hide there from orcas. The hunting process of orcas is quite interesting. First, the predator locates its prey by peeking out of the water. Then the orca swims under the ice floe, actively waving its tail and creating a wave. If the ice floe is too massive, relatives come to help. Swimming synchronously, they rock the ice floe so that it breaks, causing the seal to slip into the water.

Bonus: 5 Interesting Facts About Orcas

Orcas live in groups that can consist of several dozen individuals.
They use clicks, whistles, and calls to communicate within the group.
Pregnancy in orcas lasts about 15 months.
Each group of orcas may have its unique cultural practices, including hunting methods, play, and teaching young individuals.
With prolonged captivity, orcas may experience stress and psychological issues due to limited space and lack of stimulation.