An orca launches almost fully out of the water against a backdrop of dense evergreen forest and rocky coastline. This behavior, known as breaching, is thought to serve several purposes — from communication and play to shaking off parasites. A single breach like this can send a full-grown orca several feet into the air, a striking display of power for an animal that can weigh over 8,000 pounds.
Two orcas glide side by side just beneath the surface, their tall dorsal fins slicing through calm, glassy water. Traveling in pairs or small groups is typical of orca social structure, where individuals often stay close to family members throughout their lives. The pale patches near their eyes and the smooth, synchronized motion of their fins are hallmarks of these highly coordinated, social hunters.
