Beachgoers Flee in Terror as Giant Killer Whales Emerge on the Shore

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We know that all workers are ambitious and accomplished hunters, but that does not mean that we want to get this close to them! In this extraordinary clip, you get to see two orcas (killer whales) who have come so close to the shore that they are right next to some beachgoers. As people grab their children, the ocean creatures flounder in the waves. It looks as though they may even get stranded! Hopefully, these magnificent creatures made it back into the ocean safely.

Where Do Orcas Normally Live?

Orcas are large members of the Delphinidae family which also includes dolphins and pilot whales. They live in oceans all over the planet with sightings as far north as the Arctic Ocean and as far south as the Antarctic Ocean. On the whole, they seem to have a preference for colder waters. However, they are also seen in warmer waters like the ones we see in this clip. When they move around the ocean, it is to find new food sources rather than to seek more favorable weather or water temperatures.

They can reach depths of over 150 feet but also hunt in much shallower waters which brings them close to the shore. These guys are easy to spot and identify, thanks to their distinctive black-and-white coloration.

Which Animals Do Orcas Normally Hunt?

Killer whales live in family groups called pods, which occupy a home range where they hunt. This social system ensures the greatest success when hunting and gives protection to the orca calves who are hunted by some larger shark species.

They are the apex predators in most marine ecosystems and are at the top of the food chain.  

We know that their diet includes a wide variety of larger prey, including seals, sea lions, dolphins, and small whales. They supplement this with fish, squid, sea turtles, and the occasional sea otter.

On average, they need 100 pounds of food a day. They can eat a lot more if they get the chance! Small prey is swallowed whole, and larger prey is torn up before consumption.

Are Killer Whales Endangered?

Some populations of killer whales are designated as endangered. The World Wildlife Fund explains that the number of Southern resident killer whales is decreasing. There are around 70 of them, and they live along the west coast of Northern America, roughly between Seattle and Vancouver. Their primary threat is a lack of food because their main prey, Chinook salmon, is in short supply. This has been caused by habitat disturbance and noise from marine activities. Governments and industry are working together on noise reduction strategies.