A large dark cetacean closely related to orcas. Live in tight family groups; spectacular acrobatic behaviors.

Native status: Native to all tropical/temperate oceans

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 4–6 m
Weight1,100–2,200 kg
LifespanWild 50+ years
OrderCetacea
FamilyDelphinidae

§ Encyclopedia

The false killer whale is a species of oceanic dolphin that is the only extant representative of the genus Pseudorca. It is found in oceans worldwide but mainly in tropical regions. It was first described in 1846 as a species of porpoise based on a skull, which was revised when the first carcasses were observed in 1861. The name "false killer whale" comes from having a skull similar to the orca or killer whale.

Source: Wikipedia — False killer whale Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Large dark gray dolphin with slender body; small triangular dorsal fin; melon-shaped head.

Similar species. Orca (Killer Whale; different markings; larger). Pilot Whale (bulbous head).

Voice. Clicks, whistles for echolocation and communication.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Fish, squid, marine mammals.

Behavior. Largest member of dolphin family after orca. Despite "killer whale" name, no relation. Live in tight family pods of up to 50+ individuals.

§ Range

Hawaiian Islands and tropical waters

§ Habitat

Pelagic and coastal waters

§ Threats

Fishery interactions, marine plastic, ship strikes.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the false killer whale is currently classified as Near Threatened.

§ What helps

Support marine mammal protection. Reduce ocean plastic.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • NOAA Fisheries
  • Cascadia Research
  • IUCN Red List 2018