Changes

Killer whales have a distinctive color pattern, with black dorsal and white ventral portions. They also have a conspicuous white patch above and behind the eye and a highly variable gray or white saddle behind the dorsal fin.

Killer whales have a distinctive color pattern, with black dorsal and white ventral portions. They also have a conspicuous white patch above and behind the eye and a highly variable gray or white saddle behind the dorsal fin.

The species shows considerable size "dimorphism". Male adult killer whales can reach up to 32 feet (9.8 m) in length and can weigh nearly 22,000 pounds (10,000 kg); females can reach 28 feet (8.5 m) in length and can weigh up to 16,500 pounds (7,500 kg).  From a distance, males are further identified by their tall, straight-backed dorsal fins; females have smaller and hook-shaped dorsals.

The species shows considerable size "dimorphism". Male adult killer whales can reach up to 32 feet (9.8 m) in length and can weigh nearly 22,000 pounds (10,000 kg); females can reach 28 feet (8.5 m) in length and can weigh up to 16,500 pounds (7,500 kg).  From a distance, males are further identified by their tall, straight-backed dorsal fins; females have smaller and hook-shaped dorsals.

Sexual maturity of female killer whales is achieved when the whales reach lengths of approximately 15-18 feet (4.6 m-5.4 m), depending on geographic region. The gestation period for killer whales varies from 15-18 months, and birth may take place in any month. Calves are nursed for at least 1 year, and may be weaned between 1 and 2 years of age. The birth rate for killer whales is not well understood, but is estimated as every 5 years for an average period of 25 years.

Sexual maturity of female killer whales is achieved when the whales reach lengths of approximately 15–18 feet (4.6 m-5.4 m), depending on geographic region. The gestation period for killer whales varies from 15–18 months, and birth may take place in any month. Calves are nursed for at least 1 year, and may be weaned between 1 and 2 years of age. The birth rate for killer whales is not well understood, but is estimated as every 5 years for an average period of 25 years.

Life expectancy for wild female killer whales is approximately 50 years, with maximum longevity estimated at 80-90 years. Male killer whales typically live for about 30 years, with maximum longevity estimated at 50-60 years.

Life expectancy for wild female killer whales is approximately 50 years, with maximum longevity estimated at 80–90 years. Male killer whales typically live for about 30 years, with maximum longevity estimated at 50–60 years.

===Feeding===

===Feeding===