Feeding
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A group of killer whales attacking a blue whale. |
Killer whales are opportunistic feeders and are
very active. They are the largest warm-blooded predators ever known.
They eat a number of animals ranging from fish and squid to polar bears
to moose and even other killer whales. When killer whales reach adulthood,
they usually eat between 3 and 4 percent of their body weight per day.
Calves who are weaned fully eat about 10 percent fo their body weight
when they are growing. Killer whales hunt in social groups to capture
their food. Since they are opportunistic, the group feeds on whatever
happens to be around. Many times they will eat seals or sea lions that
live on the border of ice and water. |
Sea World has even documented killer whales attacking a blue whale...
"Approximately 30 killer whales assaulted and 18.2 (60 ft) blue whale. Two killer whales stayed ahead and two lagged behind while others surrounded the blue whale from the sides and underneath in an apparent effort to prevent escape. Some even leaped onto the back of the blue whale in what is believed to be an attempt to drown it. The SeaWorld vessel watched as the group took turns biting flesh and blubber from their prey. After five hours, the herd broke off their attack. Perhaps the killers whales were resting or they may have had their fill, but the final fate of the severely injured blue whale was not known."
Story taken from SeaWorld. |
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A killer whale looking upon his prey. |