- Orcas are apex predators and primarily feed on fish, seals, sea lions, dolphins, and even other whales.
- They use echolocation to locate prey, and their powerful jaws and sharp teeth allow them to catch and consume their prey.
- Orcas form social groups called pods, and they often hunt cooperatively to increase their chances of success.
Water:
- Orcas live in marine environments, so they have direct access to water.
- They are well-adapted swimmers and can travel long distances in search of food and mates.
- Orcas also rely on water for echolocation, as sound waves travel efficiently in water.
Shelter:
- Orcas do not build or construct shelters, but they utilize the open ocean as their primary habitat.
- They can be found in various marine environments, including coastal waters, fjords, and the open ocean.
- Orcas rely on the natural cover provided by waves and currents to protect themselves from predators and adverse weather conditions.
Reproduction:
- Orcas reproduce sexually and give birth to live young called calves.
- Female orcas typically reach sexual maturity between 10 and 15 years of age and can give birth to one calf every three to five years.
- The gestation period lasts approximately 18 months, and calves are born tail-first in the water.
- Orcas exhibit strong maternal care, and calves stay with their mothers for several years, learning essential survival and hunting skills.
Socialization:
- Orcas are highly social animals and live in close-knit pods ranging in size from a few individuals to several dozen.
- These pods are usually composed of related individuals, including mothers, offspring, and other extended family members.
- Orcas communicate through a variety of vocalizations and physical displays to maintain group cohesion and coordinate hunting and other activities.
Healthcare:
- Orcas do not have access to human healthcare services but rely on their natural adaptations, social behavior, and group dynamics to maintain their health and well-being.
- They have robust immune systems to combat infections and diseases, and their social interactions help in detecting and addressing health issues within the pod.
- In some cases, orcas may engage in self-medication by consuming certain plants or rubbing against specific rocks or surfaces that have potential medicinal properties.