Type C Killer Whale

Type C killer whales specialize in foraging for Antarctic toothfish in the dense pack ice of Antarctica. This dietary specialization distinguishes them from Type A orcas, which hunt minke whales, and Type B orcas, which target seals.

Type C killer whales are the smallest of the recognized Antarctic orca ecotypes, typically reaching about 5 to 6 meters in length. This is significantly smaller than Type A killer whales, which can reach up to 9 meters.

Type C killer whales are visually distinguished by their notably slanted, forward-pointing eye patches, which differ from the more horizontal orientation seen in Type A orcas. They also have a narrower, more streamlined dorsal cape than other ecotypes.

Type C killer whales are typically observed in the dense pack ice of Antarctic waters. Their habitat preference for ice-covered areas is closely linked to their specialization in hunting Antarctic toothfish, which inhabit these icy environments.