photo sharing and upload picture albums photo forums search pictures popular photos photography help login
Christina Craft | all galleries >> Nikon D70 > Orca Pod
previous | next
2004

Orca Pod

Vancouver Island, B.C.

Orcas (Orcinus orca) are also known as "Killer Whales", but they are not killers -- and they are not even whales. Orcas actually belong to the dolphin family. These animals divide themselves into family groups, or pods, that are lead by an adult female.
Orcas captured for sea aquariums live an average of only five and a half years, whereas orcas in natural habitats are able to reach 80 years. Calves are taught their own group's specific dialect used as a form of communication for their entire lifetimes. This species feeds on sea lions, seals, marine birds, whales and fish, and does not have natural predators.


other sizes: small medium original auto
comment | share