Orcas

Abstract

Orcas, the largest dolphins, are the top predators in the ocean. They live in highly structured populations that are determined by matrilineal relations. Orcas are very chatty animals and communicate with each other using complex sound patterns. These patterns vary by populations, and some scientists name these variations as dialects or even different languages. Orcas are very sophisticated and effective predators. They adapt to any type of prey with a great level of Plasticity. When hunting small fish such as herring, orcas deploy a tactic known as carousel feeding. A group of orcas will swim circles around a school of herrings and continuously blow bubbles. This disorients the herring and forces them to form a tight knot. One of the orcas will then shoot upward with his mouth open and swallow a couple of fish. The orcas take turns to ensure that none of their group leaves the carousel hungry.