Investigating a Killer

National Geographic has a fascinating article on Orcas (Killer Whales) on the North American West Coast in the April 2005 issue: Investigating a Killer. Scientists have been able to study Orcas for more than thirty years in outer San Juan Islands and near Vancouver Island. They have learned that the Orcas live in "pods" or extended families and have their own language. They can't communicate from pod to pod and are very tribal with their own peculiar routines and feeding habits unique to each pod. One matriarch is 72 years old! Imagine the changes she has seen! These are magnificent creatures.