Killer whales are powerful swimmers that can reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour. They are able to move so quickly thanks to their streamlined bodies, strong muscles, and large tails.
Body shape
Killer whales have a streamlined body that helps them to reduce drag in water. Their long, sleek body allows them to cut through the water with minimal resistance.
Muscles
Killer whales have powerful muscles that help them to move their bodies and tails. Their back muscles are especially strong, and they use these muscles to power their tails.
Tail
The tail of a killer whale is its primary source of propulsion. Killer whales have large, powerful tails that they can use to generate a lot of thrust. They move their tails up and down to propel themselves through the water.
Swimming
Killer whales use a variety of swimming strokes to move through the water. They can swim in a straight line, turn quickly, and even swim upside down. They can also leap out of the water, and they sometimes use this behavior to catch prey.
Communication
Killer whales use their movements to communicate with each other. They may slap their tails on the water to signal danger or to call other members of their pod. They may also breach, or jump out of the water, to communicate with each other.