Killer whale (Orcinus orca)
Group formation: Matrifocal groups (size 3-10)
Size: males 6-10m, females 5-8m, calf 2.2m
Weight: males 5-6tons, females 3-4tons, calf 180kg
Age: males 30 (60)yrs, females 50 (80-103)yrs
Sexual maturity: males 15-20 yrs, females 15 yrs
Physical maturity: males 20-25 yrs, females 15 yrs
Gestation: 16-17mths, birth every 3-4 yrs, menopause around 40yrs of age
Diet: Marine mammals mostly dolphins, manta rays
Distribution: Toothed whale, largest dolphin, distributed all over the world.
Raja Ampat: Orcas are distribution all along the coast, but low in numbers, can be seen solitary or in small groups.
Population: min. 50 000
Conservation Status: Data Deficient ver 3.1, Pop. trend: unknown
Vocalizations: http://cetus.ucsd.edu/voicesinthesea_org/species/dolphins/orca.html
Threats: whaling (Indonesia, Greenland), plastic pollution, man-made noise impacts (seismic surveys, military sonar), entanglement in fishing gear, over fishing, captivity.
Cooperation: Georgina Gemmell, Lead Administrator, Orca Project Sri Lanka