Skip to main content
DinosaursNamesPrehistoric Database
Modern

Orca

Orcinus orca • "Killer whale"

The orca, or killer whale, is a living marine mammal and the largest member of the dolphin family. It is included as a modern comparison, not as a prehistoric reptile. Different orca populations have distinct diets and hunting behaviors.

Length
≈9 m
Weight
≈5.4 t
Diet
Carnivore
Danger
Battle this dinosaurView gallery
Orca (Orcinus orca) — illustrated species reference

Overview

The orca, or killer whale, is a living marine mammal and the largest member of the dolphin family. It is included as a modern comparison, not as a prehistoric reptile. Different orca populations have distinct diets and hunting behaviors.

“The common name “killer whale” can be misleading: taxonomically, orcas are oceanic dolphins.”

Key facts

Strengths

  • Adapted to its prehistoric environment

Weaknesses

  • Limited fossil evidence for detailed behavior

Natural weapons

  • Natural jaws, teeth, or defensive anatomy

Movies vs. science

Myth: Popular media often simplifies prehistoric animal behavior.

Reality: Fossils provide the strongest evidence for anatomy and ecology.

Size & simulator stats

Adult males can reach about 8–9 m; females are smaller. Size varies by population.

Length
9 m
Height
2.5 m
Weight
5.4 t

Illustrative simulator values (not measured biology)

Attack86/100
Defense78/100
Speed88/100
Intelligence92/100
Bite force ≈ 19,000 PSI

See how Orca measures up in the sourced size comparison chart.

Habitat

Marine waters around the world, from polar seas to tropical oceans.

All oceans, from polar waters to tropical seas.

Diet

Diet differs among populations and can include fish, squid, seals, and other marine mammals.

Carnivore. Diet varies among populations and includes fish or marine mammals, depending on the population.

Fossils & discovery

First described from Fossil record (Multiple fossil formations).The common name “killer whale” can be misleading: taxonomically, orcas are oceanic dolphins.

Research sources

Sources checked on by the Dinosaurs Names Editorial Team. Editorial policy

Battle Arena

Can anything beat Orca?

Send Orca into an illustrative matchup against any other species and compare attack, defense, and bite force.

Fight as Orca