The orca is one of the fastest animals in the sea. The record holder is a male
timed at 55.5 km/h (34.5 mph). It is also one of the most widespread mammals on
Earth.
Physical Description: Orcas are distinctively coloured. The dorsal surface
is mostly black except for a grey saddle behind the dorsal fin. The underside
of the body and underside of the flukes are white and there is a white eyespot
behind each eye. They have a huge dorsal fin - 1.8m (6ft) high - the tallest dorsal
fin in the animal kingdom.
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Scottish Distribution: Many sightings in Shetland and the North Coast.
Diet: Orcas are top predators in the ocean. Their food preferences vary
according to their locality. Prey includes marine mammals (other whales, seals,
sea-lions, walruses), fish, squid and occasionally sea birds, sea otters and penguins.
Latin Name: Orcinus orca
