Orcas, also known as killer whales, are actually a species of dolphin. Despite their common name, they are not whales. Orcas belong to the family Delphinidae, which includes various species of dolphins.
While they are the largest species of dolphin, with adult males reaching lengths of up to 9 meters (30 feet) and weighing several tons, they are classified as dolphins based on their evolutionary lineage and shared characteristics with other members of the dolphin family.
The name “killer whale” can be misleading since orcas are not whales in the taxonomic sense. However, they are highly intelligent, social marine mammals and are known for their distinct black and white coloration, as well as their remarkable hunting abilities.
