How To Tell Orcas Apart

Southern Resident (SRKW) and Transient (also known as Bigg’s) killer whales have several distinguishing characteristics, despite belonging to the same species. Here are the key differences:

Physical Appearance:

– SKRWs tend to have a more rounded dorsal fin tip and a smaller saddle patch (the gray area behind their dorsal fin)

– Transients have a more pointed dorsal fin and a larger, more prominent saddle patch that often has a darker pattern within it

- SKRWs are typically slightly smaller than Transients

Behavioral Differences:

–  SKRWs primarily feed on salmon (especially Chinook), while Transients hunt marine mammals like seals, sea lions, and other whales

–  Due to their different prey, SKRWs tend to travel in larger, more stable family groups (pods of 20-50 whales), while Transients usually travel in smaller groups (2-6 whales)

–  SKRWs are more vocal underwater since their prey (fish) can’t hear their echolocation, while Transients are typically quieter to avoid alerting marine mammal prey

Geographic Range:

–  SKRWs are most commonly found in the Salish Sea (waters around Washington state and British Columbia) during summer and fall

–  Transients range more widely along the Pacific Coast, from Alaska to California

Time spent at surface:

–  SKRWs typically spend more time at the surface and engage in more surface-active behaviors like breaching and tail slapping

–  Transients tend to dive for longer periods and surface less frequently due to their hunting strategy