Orcas, also known as killer whales, are one of the most fascinating and feared marine mammals in the world. With their distinctive appearance, advanced intelligence, and group hunting skills, they are considered the top of the marine food chain. But what do orcas feed on exactly? Let’s find out.
Killer whales are avid predators and feed on a variety of prey including fish, squid, octopus, seals, sea lions, walruses, whales, and even sharks. Their diet can vary depending on the region they live in and the prey available, but some prey are common throughout the world.
One of the most common prey for orcas is salmon. The resident orcas of the North Pacific, for example, feed mainly on Chinook salmon, which is rich in fat and protein. Killer whales usually hunt salmon in rivers and estuaries, taking advantage of water currents to help them hunt.
Another common prey for orcas are seals and sea lions. Orcas ambush seals and sea lions while they are swimming or resting on rocks and islands. Killer whales can attack aggressively, dragging prey into the sea or hurling them into the air to incapacitate them before eating them.
Killer whales also feed on other marine mammals such as whales and dolphins. Although orcas are smaller than some whales, they can hunt in packs and attack prey much larger than themselves. Orcas can hunt whales in a variety of ways, including biting their flippers or tails, or encircling them so they can’t breathe.
In addition to marine mammals, killer whales also eat fish such as herring, cod, and flounder, as well as cephalopods such as squid and octopus. Killer whales can hunt these prey alone or in groups, and they use a variety of tactics to capture them.
Killer whales are intelligent and adaptable animals, and their diet can vary depending on the region and available prey. Some killer whale populations have been observed feeding on sharks, sea turtles, and even seabirds. Killer whales are also known to be opportunistic and may feed on dead animals or abandoned fishing debris.
Photo by Holger Wulschlaeger
