Common name: Killer Whale.

Scientific name: Orcinus orca (Linnaeus, 1758)

Family: Delphinidae

Distribution and Habitat: Its presence in the region is occasional. It is a cosmopolitan species, yet it is more abundant in coastal waters and at higher latitudes.

Description: The dorsal region has a black colouration, which contrasts with an elliptic-shaped white spot behind the eye, and another greyish one behind the dorsal fin. The belly is white and the dorsal fin is very prominent and triangular. The flippers are wide and flat, the body is extremely robust and the head is round with no beak. Males may reach 8,5 m in lenght and weigh 6000 Kg.

Conservation statute and Threats: Of little concern.

Observations: Although this species' frequency in the Madeira Archipelago is reduced, it has already been seen in different seasons of the year.