Are Orca whales cold blooded or warm blooded?

Orca whales are warm-blooded, also known as endothermic. This means they can regulate their own body temperature internally, regardless of the surrounding environment.

Here's why:

* They have a layer of blubber: Orcas have a thick layer of blubber beneath their skin, which acts as insulation, helping them retain heat.

* They have a high metabolic rate: Orcas have a fast metabolism, which generates a lot of heat.

* They have a counter-current heat exchange system: Blood vessels in their flippers and tail fins are arranged in a way that helps conserve heat. Warm blood from the body flows alongside cold blood returning from the extremities, transferring heat and preventing excessive heat loss.

These adaptations allow orcas to survive in a variety of water temperatures, including the cold waters of the Arctic and Antarctic.