* Coastal waters: Orcas are often seen close to shore, especially in areas with abundant prey like salmon or seals.
* Open ocean: They are also found in the open ocean, where they hunt larger prey like whales and sharks.
* Deep waters: Some orca populations even dive to depths of over 1,000 meters.
However, their distribution is not uniform. Different orca populations are geographically isolated and have distinct diets and behaviors. Some notable areas where orcas are common include:
* The Pacific Northwest: The waters off the coast of Washington and British Columbia are home to a large and diverse population of orcas.
* The Mediterranean Sea: A distinct population of orcas is found in the Mediterranean, where they are known to prey on tuna and other fish.
* Antarctica: Orcas are common in the Southern Ocean, where they prey on seals and penguins.
It's important to remember that orca populations are facing threats, such as pollution, habitat loss, and climate change. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these fascinating animals.